The Generalitat of Catalonia has reported a total of three cases of African swine fever (ASF) found outside the designated security perimeter in Barcelona, specifically in Sant Feliu de Llobregat and Molins de Rei. These cases are concerning as they mark a significant extension of the outbreak, which began in Cerdanyola del Vallès last November. The authorities have established a security cordon to try and contain the spread, but the detection of these new cases indicates that the virus is moving beyond the immediate affected regions.

In total, 13 infected wild boars have been identified, with the two newly reported cases adding to the existing concerns about the outbreak's control. The presence of the ASF virus outside the 'zero zone' raises questions about its potential impact on local agriculture and livestock industries, as the disease poses severe risks to pig farming. The Spanish Government has disregarded allegations that the outbreak originated from the laboratory IRTA-CReSA in Cerdanyola del Vallès, attempting to ensure public reassurance while addressing the escalating situation.

Óscar Ordeig, the regional Minister of Agriculture, has made a public appeal for greater resources and support from both the Spanish Government and other autonomous communities. With the threat posed by ASF to the agricultural sector, the push for collaborative efforts highlights the urgency of bolstering response mechanisms and containment strategies as the situation evolves in the region.