Global Expansion of African Swine Fever, A Grim Reality

Widespread Outbreak: The Swift Propagation of ASF

The African Swine Fever (ASF) virus, known for its high contagiousness and almost 100% fatality rate among domestic and wild pigs, has surged across the world since its resurgence in January 2021. By August 2023, it has infiltrated 49 countries, causing significant disruptions in pig populations. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) published a concerning report on August 21, 2023, shedding light on the escalating spread of ASF.

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Rapid Spread Across Continents: African Swine Fever

ASF’s swift expansion is evident in its reach across five continents: Asia, Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Oceania. Over a span of just over two years, this virus has managed to infiltrate 49 countries, indicating the severity of the epidemic and its global impact.

Unveiling Disturbing Losses: A Bleak Situation

Pervasive Devastation: Toll on Pigs and Wild Boars

ASF’s outbreak has resulted in staggering losses, with more than 1.5 million pigs lost in this relatively short timeframe. Its adverse effects are not limited to domestic pigs; wild boars have also suffered, with over 28,000 casualties. The virus’s ferocity is further highlighted by its near-complete fatality rate, affecting both domestic and wild pig populations.

Hidden Toll and Ongoing Threat

The provided statistics may not capture the full extent of the crisis. The reported figures consider losses within establishments affected by outbreaks but exclude animals culled in proximity to these outbreaks. As ASF continues to spread to new areas, it has reached nine countries for the first time, and ten others have seen its expansion into previously unaffected regions.

Urgent Measures and Lessons to Learn: African Swine Fever

ASF’s rapid spread underscores the urgency of implementing decisive actions on a global scale. This epidemic reveals important lessons:

The need to bolster biosecurity measures to prevent further spread.
The establishment of effective early reporting and response systems to contain outbreaks swiftly.
The elevation of disease awareness and vigilance across the entire livestock value chain.

India’s Resilience Tested: Confronting the ASF Onslaught

India’s Vulnerability to ASF

Even in India’s bio-secure environments, ASF has managed to infiltrate. Examples include the impact on Assam’s government pig-breeding farm and the ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig in Guwahati. ASF’s arrival in 2020 shattered India’s century-long immunity against the virus. Despite its historical strength, ASF’s relentless expansion prompted strategic responses and heightened vigilance in the country.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

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