Lombardy Eases African Swine Fever Restrictions Following European Vote

Lombardy region has announced the declassification of African Swine Fever (ASF) restriction zones following a European Commission decision on March 24, 2026. The change reflects improved surveillance, wildlife control, and enhanced biosafety standards in pig farms, with formal approval expected soon through the publication of the European regulation.

In detail, all 82 municipalities in the Metropolitan City of Milan are now considered ASF-free zones. In Lodi, 32 municipalities have been downgraded, except San Rocco due to nearby cases in Piacenza. Pavia’s 186 municipalities see 77 declared ASF-free, 53 moved to Restriction Zone 1, and 56 remain in Zone 2 in Oltrepò Pavese. The declassification was coordinated by regional authorities and involved multiple agencies, including veterinary services, law enforcement, and local administrations.
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