African swine fever (ASF) represents a significant global concern for pig health and welfare. Following reports of ASF in several European nations, Greece confirmed its first official case on 5 February 2020. The case occurred on a backyard farm in Nikoklia, Serres regional unit, Central Macedonia, where the owner observed anorexia, lethargy, respiratory distress, and the sudden death of six pigs. Necropsy of one gilt revealed lesions consistent with acute to subacute septicemia, including marked splenomegaly and lymph node enlargement or hemorrhage. The non-specific symptoms initially reported showed partial similarity to acute ASF, but due to the presence of splenic enlargement and septicemic changes, ASF could not be excluded. Considering the proximity of the farm to ASF protection zones, additional diagnostic analyses were conducted. The disease was confirmed through a range of laboratory tests performed on tissue samples. Further clinical, molecular, and epidemiologic investigations followed. In accordance with emergency control measures, all 31 pigs on the premises were culled, and ASFV infection was confirmed through serological testing. Additional containment actions were implemented to prevent disease spread.
