Following recent outbreaks of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Spain, UK pig producers are being urged to maintain strong biosecurity measures and ensure robust contingency plans are in place.
Julian Sparrey, group technical director at Livetec Systems, said the outbreaks reinforced the importance of being prepared.
Mr Sparrey said: “The cases in Spain are part of the ongoing ASF situation across Europe.
Julian Sparrey, group technical director at Livetec Systems (Image: Supplied)
“They highlight the potential impact an outbreak could have here, and why producers must stay one step ahead of ASF and other disease threats.”
Although the immediate risk to UK pig farms has not changed, the consequences of an outbreak would be severe.
If ASF were to reach the UK, pig units within restricted zones could face at least 40 days without pig movement.
Mr Sparrey emphasised the need for practical preparedness.
He said: “Pressure-testing contingency plans now is critical to business resilience and to regaining disease freedom as quickly as possible.”
He also warned that the most likely route of entry would be through contaminated, illegally imported, or undeclared meat.
Producers are being encouraged to review all potential transmission routes, including vehicle movements, hygiene protocols, pig-to-pig contact, and site layout.
Mr Sparrey said: “Effective biosecurity doesn’t always require major investment.
“Small, practical improvements can make a significant difference if they’re consistently applied.”
He also highlighted the risk posed by wild boar and other pig populations, noting that nose-to-nose contact could create pathways that are difficult to monitor and control.
Mr Sparrey said: “While ASF poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious among pigs.
“Measures such as double fencing to prevent incursions may be justified in higher-risk areas.”
Owners of rare breed pigs are also urged to register their animals and make sure suitable quarantine facilities are in place, which may help protect them from culling if the epidemiological situation allows.
The call to action follows a series of veterinary-led ASF preparedness workshops held over the past year by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), Livetec Systems, and the National Pig Association (NPA).
Mr Sparrey encouraged producers to seek external assessments of their biosecurity and contingency planning.
He said: “It can be difficult to spot vulnerabilities on your own farm.
“Regular biosecurity reviews allow producers to make steady improvements.
“We have time now and we should use it.”
Livetec Systems, founded in 2010, is a livestock protection solutions provider working to help UK producers strengthen their biosecurity and disease management systems.
The company offers consultancy services, on-farm equipment, and digital tracking tools to help reduce disease risk and support farm productivity.