Spain identifies a new ASF strain

Spanish authorities confirmed that the recent African swine fever (ASF) outbreak involves a previously unidentified strain, informed Pig333.

Genetic sequencing carried out by the Institute for Research in Biomedicine in Barcelona showed that the virus does not match any of the more than 800 ASF strains recorded worldwide, nor those used in local laboratories.

The newly detected strain presents 27 point mutations and a significant deletion, leading researchers to classify it as a new genetic group (group 29). Investigations into the origin of the virus are ongoing, while containment and biosecurity measures remain in place.