A pig was found dead at the Herning slaughterhouse on 30 April, and as ASF could not be excluded as a cause of death, the site was temporarily closed as a precaution. However, a number of samples were sent to the National Veterinary Institute and, after analysis, no ASF was found.
Erik Larsen, from the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration (DAFC), said: "It’s incredibly important that we keep a vigilant eye on swine fever in Denmark, because an outbreak would have huge consequences for Denmark’s pork exports. I’m delighted to confirm, therefore, that our contingency plans work as well as they do. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration should be praised for handling the situation quickly and safely."
The Herning slaughterhouse has resumed production, with confidence renewed. ASF has still never been found in Denmark.
Larsen added: "Last year, Danish pig producers exported to the value DKK 32 billion, so there is a lot at stake. Denmark has a high standard of contingency planning and its reputation for food safety is important. We need to protect this."