Kerala has recently reported an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF), prompting authorities to take immediate action to contain the disease. A one-kilometre radius around the infected farm has been declared a disease-affected zone, while a broader 10-kilometre area has been designated as a disease surveillance zone to monitor and prevent further spread. According to reports from PTI, the district collector is actively enforcing disease control protocols within these zones. Movement of pigs and pork-related products in and out of these areas is being strictly regulated or completely prohibited.As cases rise, many people are asking a key question: Can African swine fever affect humans? Let’s break it down.What Is African Swine Fever?African Swine Fever is a highly contagious and often fatal disease that affects pigs, whether they are farm-raised or wild. Importantly, ASF does not infect humans. The virus spreads easily from pig to pig through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected animal. Another common route of transmission is feeding pigs uncooked food waste that contains contaminated pork products. If the food waste isn’t properly heat-treated, it can carry the virus and infect pigs.Where Is African Swine Fever Found?ASF has traditionally been seen in Africa, but in recent years it has appeared in Central and Eastern Europe as well as parts of Asia. The virus continues to spread in Europe, keeping authorities vigilant. The disease affects both domestic pigs and wild boars, and it can appear on farms of all sizes, smallholdings, and even in pet pigs. Countries where ASF has been reported are taking strict measures to prevent further outbreaks, highlighting the need for constant vigilance.Is African Swine Fever Dangerous For Humans?Despite being a severe disease for pigs, ASF does not pose a threat to humans. According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, the virus spreads exclusively among pigs, primarily through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids. Humans cannot catch the virus, though people handling infected pigs or contaminated materials can inadvertently help the disease spread between animals.How Is African Swine Fever Transmitted?ASF spreads through several routes:Direct contact with infected pigs, their faeces, or other body fluids.Indirect contact via contaminated equipment, vehicles, or farm workers who move between farms without proper biosecurity.Pigs consuming infected pork or pork products.Through certain ticks, specifically the Ornithodoros species, which can carry the virus.Preventing African Swine Fever: The Role of BiosecurityThe most effective way to prevent ASF is through strict biosecurity measures on pig farms. Some essential practices include:Allow only essential visitors on the farm, and ensure they wear clean or disposable clothing and footwear. Handwashing or showering upon entry is recommended.Clean and disinfect vehicles and equipment before they enter the farm.Prevent anyone who has been in contact with other pigs from entering your farm.Do not bring pork products or scraps onto the farm. Dispose of catering waste safely.Source pigs and semen only from animals of known health status.Farmers and pig owners play a critical role in stopping the spread of ASF. Maintaining effective biosecurity year-round is essential to protecting animals and preventing future outbreaks.
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook