The Italian government is planning to eradicate the wild boar population that has been rampant in Rome after discovering an individual infected with African swine fever.
(Video: Wanted in Rome)
In and around Rome, it is not uncommon to see wild boars rummaging through trash cans or wandering the streets. Although most residents have adjusted to coexisting with these wild animals, the situation is becoming increasingly dire. Some of the boars are now carrying infectious diseases, leading to injuries among residents.
The Italian government is planning to eliminate the wild boar population following the discovery of at least one individual testing positive for African swine fever in the Insugherata nature reserve this week. Two other boars in the same area are also likely positive. While this disease does not pose a threat to humans, it does not mean that residents are safe from wild boars. In recent months, authorities have recorded numerous reports of boar attacks on people. In some northern areas of Rome, the city has banned outdoor picnics, and certain neighborhoods have even implemented curfews to prevent boars from coming into contact with humans.
Wild boars casually roam through the city.
This is the first time African swine fever has been recorded in wild boars near the capital, Rome. Approximately 2.3 million wild boars roam throughout Italy, with about 20,000 living in Rome. Although African swine fever does not transmit to humans, it can infect commercially raised pigs intended for meat.
Domestic pigs are descended from wild boars, which are native to Europe and Asia. Researchers indicate that the wild boar population has increased over the past few decades due to high reproduction rates and a lack of predators, combined with the effects of climate change, reforestation efforts, and reduced hunting activity. In addition to threatening livestock farmers, wild boars have also caused injuries to residents. Marta Santangelo was attacked by a mother boar and her seven piglets while walking her dog and taking out the trash at 11 PM. Despite Santangelo’s attempts to flee, she tripped, and the wild boar charged at her head. A passerby took Santangelo to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
