Canary Islands Authorities Urge Calm as African Swine Fever Threat Looms

On December 3, 2023, the Government of the Canary Islands took proactive steps to reassure residents about the potential threat of African swine fever (ASF) that has recently emerged in Catalonia. The authorities emphasized their commitment to monitoring the situation closely and implementing necessary precautions to protect the islands.

Ongoing Surveillance and Community Assurance

Narvay Quintero, the Councillor for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food Sovereignty, addressed the public’s concerns by stating that the regional government is actively engaged in daily monitoring of the ASF situation. He confirmed that, as of now, there are no reported cases of the disease within the Canary Islands. However, he did not shy away from acknowledging the potential risk of the virus entering through the islands’ export ports.

Quintero conveyed a strong message of reassurance, highlighting the geographical isolation of the Canary Islands as a significant protective factor against the introduction of such diseases. He remarked, “Our outermost status, which can be a hindrance in many regards, is actually a strength in preventing this type of disease and pest.” This statement reflects a sense of optimism and confidence in the islands’ ability to fend off potential threats.

Enhanced Protective Measures and Export Restrictions

In response to the reported cases in Catalonia, which involve wild boars that are not native to the Canary Islands, Quintero assured the public that additional protective measures are being implemented. He explained that while the islands do import livestock from various regions in Spain, they have specifically halted all exports from Catalonia to mitigate any potential risks associated with the disease.

Quintero further elaborated on the stringent controls that are now enforced at all farms and for livestock exports. He reiterated that the primary concern lies in the possibility of the disease entering through export ports, necessitating rigorous monitoring and regulation of livestock exports. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the islands remain free from ASF.

In addition to these measures, Quintero reassured the public that African swine fever does not pose a threat to human health. He emphasized that the disease is confined to swine populations, which should alleviate any fears among residents regarding its impact on human safety.

Collaborative Efforts with National Authorities

The Government of the Canary Islands is not acting alone in this endeavor. They are collaborating closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to effectively monitor the situation and respond to any developments regarding ASF. This partnership aims to keep a vigilant eye on the evolution of the ASF issue and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to safeguard the islands and their agricultural interests.

Quintero’s statements reflect a proactive approach to managing the potential risks associated with African swine fever. By ensuring that the public remains informed and reassured during this period of vigilance, the authorities hope to maintain confidence among residents and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Public Awareness and Information Dissemination

In addition to monitoring and regulatory measures, the government is also focusing on public awareness campaigns to educate residents about African swine fever. These initiatives aim to inform the community about the disease, its transmission, and the importance of reporting any unusual symptoms in livestock. By fostering a well-informed public, the authorities hope to enhance the overall response to any potential outbreaks.

Quintero emphasized the importance of community involvement in this effort, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to livestock health. He stated, “The cooperation of our citizens is crucial in ensuring that we can detect and respond to any potential threats swiftly.” This call to action highlights the role of the community in safeguarding the islands against ASF.

Key points

• The Government of the Canary Islands is monitoring African swine fever daily.
• There are currently no cases of ASF reported in the Canary Islands.
• Geographical isolation is seen as a protective factor against disease introduction.
• Exports from Catalonia have been halted to mitigate risks.
• Stringent controls are in place for livestock exports to the islands.
• The disease does not affect human health.
• Public awareness campaigns are being launched to educate residents about ASF.
• Community cooperation is vital for early detection and response to potential threats.