Unreported Incidents of African Swine Fever in Sauerland Increase to Eleven
In the picturesque Sauerland region of Germany, the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak has brought about a series of challenges for both tourism and pig farming industries.
- Tourism Impact
The cancellation of events like the Falke Rothaarsteig-Marathon 2025, due to ASF outbreaks in neighboring regions, has directly affected local tourism and businesses that rely on visitors[1]. Although some mountain bike events, such as the Majlen Sunshine Race in Winterberg (Hochsauerland), continued, the general uncertainty around ASF can dampen tourist attendance in affected areas[4].
- Pig Farming Challenges
Farmers in ASF-restricted zones face stringent challenges, including movement restrictions and biosecurity protocols to contain the virus. These measures often lead to the culling of infected or at-risk animals, resulting in significant livestock and income losses[2]. The restrictions also affect the transport of pigs and pig products, impacting regular farm business operations[2].
- Economic Consequences
The reduced sales for pig farmers and subsequent loss of income have a ripple effect on local butchers and restaurants relying on pork products. Although exact sales figures for Sauerland farmers and restaurants are not detailed, the cancellation of tourism events also reduces restaurant patronage and local economic activity[1][2][4].
- Farmers' Measures
To combat ASF, farmers like Lisa Sternberg in Lennestadt-Grevenbrück have increased security measures, sealing off their farms with large construction fences due to their location in the inner restricted zone of ASF[5]. They implement strict biosecurity measures, including controlled access to farms, disinfection routines, and immediate reporting of suspicious cases[3].
It is crucial to note that ASF cannot be transmitted to humans or dogs, but only affects pigs[6]. Despite this, tourists are avoiding the region due to the outbreak, leading to a decline in business for restaurants like Bernhard Schwermer's at the Rhein-Weser Tower[7]. Schwermer emphasizes the need for more information about the disease to dispel false ideas and prevent unnecessary fear among tourists[8].
The article, written by Heinz Krischer, was updated on July 28, 2025, at 01:06 and 18:35[9][10]. The situation remains a disaster for farmers like Lisa Sternberg, who have 1,200 pigs in their sties, which they can only sell to certain slaughterhouses due to the ASF restrictions[2]. Innkeepers in the restricted zone are also feeling the consequences of the rising number of ASF cases. The article is available until July 28, 2027, on the website[11].
References:
[1] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Tourism and pig farming affected. Retrieved from website
[2] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Farmers face severe challenges. Retrieved from website
[3] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Biosecurity measures intensify. Retrieved from website
[4] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Cancellation of events affects tourism. Retrieved from website
[5] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Farmers take protective measures. Retrieved from website
[6] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Myths and facts about the disease. Retrieved from website
[7] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Restaurants suffer from tourist avoidance. Retrieved from website
[8] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: More information needed to dispel fear among tourists. Retrieved from website
[9] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Article updated at 01:06. Retrieved from website
[10] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Article updated at 18:35. Retrieved from website
[11] Krischer, H. (2025, July 28). ASF outbreak in Sauerland: Article available until July 28, 2027. Retrieved from website
- What about the impact on health and wellness, especially for people who may be concerned about eating pork or living in an area with a pig disease outbreak?
- Due to the ASF outbreak in the Sauerland region, there has been an increased interest in environmental science and sustainable farming practices, as some farmers are turning towards organic produce and alternative livestock to avoid future outbreaks.
