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Catalonia Names Independent Six-Expert Audit to Probe Bellaterra African Swine Fever Outbreak

EU testing linked the wild‑boar virus to the Georgia 2007 reference strain, prompting a focused review of laboratory biosecurity.

Overview

  • Catalonia reported 13 infected wild boar near Bellaterra and launched an independent audit to determine the outbreak’s origin.
  • The panel of six biosecurity specialists has started work with daily meetings and logistical support from IRTA director Josep Usall.
  • CISA‑INIA’s Laura Pérez will coordinate the committee, joined by Gorka Adúriz, Massimo Palmarin, Gonzalo Pascual, Xavier Abad and Diana Ramírez.
  • The EU reference laboratory said the virus falls into genetic group 29 related to Georgia 2007, a strain commonly used in experimental studies.
  • Seprona and the Mossos d’Esquadra will conduct a joint investigation, while trade measures include South Korea’s 20 km regionalization, China’s province‑wide ban, and domestic-only marketing for 35,600 pigs on 55 farms.