ITANAGAR, May 3: African swine fever (ASF) has been detected in pigs in two districts of Arunachal.
The samples collected from ailing and dead pigs, which were sent to the National Institute for High Security Animal Disease in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, have tested positive for the ASF virus, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development (AHV&DD) Director, Dr ND Minto, said in a release.
“The laboratory report suggests occurrence of ASF in East Siang and Papum Pare districts,” the release said.
ASF is a highly contagious hemorrhagic viral disease associated with high fatality rates in domestic and wild pigs, and is caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV).
“Most of the clinical symptoms of the disease resemble that of common classical swine fever which is endemic to this part of the country and can be controlled by timely vaccination,” Dr Minto said.
The disease has been reported for the first time in the country.
ASF was first reported 100 years ago in Africa. Currently, there is no vaccine or antiviral drug for treatment of ASFV infection, said the director.
Meanwhile, the department has formulated strategies for control and containment of the viral disease.
While a statewide ban on transportation of pigs and sale of pork is already in force, the government has issued advisories to pig farmers and owners to contain the spread of the disease. It advised pig owners to report to the nearest veterinary dispensaries about ailment of their livestock, segregate and isolate ill and diseased pigs, disinfect farm premises, etc.
The farmers have been requested to report any unusual pig mortality and pig disease to the department at the helpline numbers 69099 01104/09 between 9 am and 5 pm.
Stating that AHV&DD Secretary Minum Tayeng is monitoring the situation, Dr Minto urged the public to not panic but cooperate with the department by providing information.
