In summer, when the travel rush and peak are reached, controls on the import of animal products are increased, especially pork and sausages.
These measures aim to prevent the introduction of animal diseases such as African swine fever (ASF), which pose a significant threat to agriculture and animal health in Austria. Despite the fact that humans themselves are not affected by ASF, the disease has devastating effects on pigs, which include both economic and health dimensions.
Customs and veterinary authorities increase controls
The veterinary and customs authorities have initiated a comprehensive control campaign for the summer months to prevent the spread of African swine fever. The current controls are being carried out in cooperation with the Austrian Customs Office, the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMSGPK), and the Food Safety Agency (AGES). The focus is on identifying and preventing animal products from non-EU countries, as these pose an increased risk of introducing ASF.
African swine fever, which was recently detected in Germany in both wild and domestic pigs, poses a serious threat to livestock populations. The infection is often fatal for domestic pigs and wild boars. The disease is spread by contaminated food brought in by those affected. Travelers are therefore strongly advised not to bring any animal products such as pork or sausages back from their vacation.
Significant threats to agriculture
Finance Minister Magnus Brunner underlines the importance of the controls: « Animal diseases such as African swine fever are a serious threat to our agriculture and also to the local wild boars. The introduction of the disease would also result in major financial burdens. » The effects would be far-reaching, as an outbreak of ASF would entail considerable economic losses for livestock farmers and agriculture as a whole.
Health Minister Johannes Rauch also stressed the urgency of the measure: « Our goal is to make travelers aware that bringing meat from non-EU countries is prohibited and is strictly controlled by customs. » Human activities such as bringing and carelessly throwing away infected meat are among the main causes of viral infection.
Controls in detail: Insight into the measures
The controls include a strict check of the food brought in by customs officials and veterinarians. In particular, the taking of meat from private production that has not been subjected to official controls is prohibited. These products are not subject to risk protection if they are strengthened and controlled in any state and could contribute to the spread of African swine fever. In January 2024, the customs authorities successfully seized around 2.4 tons of illegally brought animal food and prevented its import. This illustrates the effectiveness of the measures, which, however, must be continuously adapted to meet new challenges.
ASF is currently active in several southern and eastern European countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Romania and Bulgaria. The risk of introduction into Austria remains high, particularly due to the large number of travellers and the intensive exchange between countries.
Practical tips for travellers
Travelers should be aware that the import of pork from affected countries is strictly prohibited. When returning from vacation, it is advisable not to bring any animal products with you, and especially to avoid homemade or non-officially controlled foods. In addition, travelers should also avoid contact with domestic and wild pigs in affected countries to minimize the risk of unintentionally spreading the disease.
The coordinated action of the authorities involved is an important step in the fight against African swine fever. Increased control and information campaigns are being used to try to prevent the disease from being introduced and thus protect the domestic animal population and agriculture.
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