African Swine Fever Spreads Beyond Containment Zone in Catalonia, Prompting Expanded Restrictions

ASF Cases Detected Outside Initial Perimeter

African Swine Fever (ASF) has been detected outside the previously established high-risk containment zone in Spain's northeastern region of Catalonia. Officials confirmed on Friday, February 13, 2026, that new cases in wild boars were found in the municipalities of Molins de Rei and El Papiol, both located near Barcelona. This development marks the first time the disease has spread beyond the initial six-kilometer perimeter since its re-emergence in the region in November 2025.

The Catalan agriculture department reported 13 new cases in wild boars, with two of these identified outside the original high-risk area. The total number of positive ASF cases in wild boars in Catalonia has now risen to 155. In response, authorities have expanded the high-risk zone to include the newly affected municipalities and have imposed restrictions on access to surrounding woodlands to prevent further transmission.

Intensified Control Measures and Economic Concerns

The spread of ASF has prompted an immediate revision of control strategies. Regional authorities have implemented a series of measures, including:

• Expansion of the high-risk zone to include 14 municipalities.
• Restrictions on access to natural areas and monitoring of movement along major highways like the N-2 and B-23.
• Intensive carcass searches, population reduction through trapping and controlled hunting, and drone-based surveillance.
• Installation of 180 specific fencing points at wild boar passage corridors and a second containment barrier around the Collserola natural park utilizing highways.

While no infections have been reported in commercial pig farms, the outbreak has significantly impacted Spain's pork exports. Spain is the European Union's leading pork producer and the world's third-largest producer, with annual exports valued at approximately 3.5 billion euros. The industry has already faced substantial losses, estimated at 63 million euros up to the end of 2025, with exports worth around 800 million euros at risk. Some countries have halted pork imports from affected regions.

Understanding African Swine Fever

African Swine Fever is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs. It is harmless to humans and poses no risk to human health. However, it is almost always fatal for infected swine, and there is currently no vaccine or cure. The virus can spread through direct contact with infected animals, their body fluids, or indirectly via contaminated vehicles, clothing, or food products.

Ongoing Investigation and Official Statements

The origin of the current outbreak remains unknown, and a judicial investigation is underway. Early analysis suggests the genetic structure of the virus does not match previously known sources, making its exact entry point difficult to pinpoint. One theory suggests the infection may have entered through contaminated food waste.

Oscar Ordeig, Catalonia's regional agriculture minister, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, 'More than ever, it is essential not to lower our guard against a disease that remains present.' He also acknowledged that the spread beyond the initial zone was an 'expected outcome' given the nature of wild boar movement. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious cases and to avoid approaching wild animal carcasses.