How African swine fever became the reason of death of pigs ?

African swine fever (ASF) has led to the deaths of numerous pigs in India, with recent outbreaks reported in Kerala and Mizoram.

Kerala: In the Madakkathara Grama Panchayat of Kerala's Thrissur district, as many as 310 pigs were killed after an ASF outbreak was reported at a private farm in the 14th ward of the local body.

Mizoram: Since February, the death toll of pigs due to ASF in Mizoram has crossed 3,350, according to officials.

Understanding African Swine Fever

The Virus

ASF is caused by a large, enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus. This virus is the sole member of the genus Asfivirus within the family Asfarviridae. It is a contagious and deadly viral disease that affects domestic and feral swine of all ages, posing a significant threat to pig populations worldwide.

Symptoms of African Swine Fever

Pigs affected by ASF exhibit a range of symptoms, including:

• Decreased appetite and weakness
• Red, blotchy skin or skin lesions
• Diarrhea, vomiting, or both
• Coughing and difficulty breathing
• Abortions or sudden death

How ASF Spreads

ASF spreads through several pathways:

• Direct Contact: Pigs can contract the virus through direct contact with infected animals.
• Indirect Contact: Indirect transmission occurs through ingesting products from infected animals or contact with contaminated clothing, vehicles, or equipment.
• Vector Transmission: Bites from infectious soft ticks can also spread the virus.
• Contaminated Products: The ASF virus can survive for long periods in pork and pork meat products, making these products potential sources of infection.

Impact on Human Health

ASF does not pose a danger to human health. The meat or other products from infected pigs do not present any food safety risks for humans. However, the disease devastates pig populations and the farming economy.

Lack of Vaccine and Cure

Currently, there is no cure or approved vaccine for ASF. The only way to prevent the spread of the disease is by culling infected animals.

Preventive Measures for Pig Owners

To protect their herds from ASF, pig owners should take the following steps:

1. Avoid Swill Feeding: Do not feed pigs swill or any food waste containing meat products.
2. Implement Biosecurity Practices: Effective on-farm biosecurity practices are essential. This includes keeping records of pig movements and visitors and preventing feral pigs from coming into contact with domestic pigs.
3. Develop a Biosecurity Management Plan: Creating a Pig Biosecurity Management Plan can help manage risks.
4. Vigilance: Be vigilant for signs of illness in pigs and act promptly to prevent the spread of the disease.

ASF continues to pose a significant threat to pig populations globally, with recent outbreaks in India highlighting the urgent need for stringent biosecurity measures and vigilance among pig owners. Prevention remains the best strategy to combat this deadly disease without a cure or vaccine. 

- Swati Chaurasiya.

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