The central government has recently advised the Assam state government to cull pigs that have been affected by the African Swine Fever (ASF). This viral disease, which causes a hemorrhagic fever in domestic and wild pigs, was first reported in areas of China bordering Arunachal Pradesh in November-December, 2019. Although ASF is not known to affect humans, it is highly contagious among pigs, with mortality rates reaching nearly 100%.
Planning for ASF Mitigation
To handle this emerging threat, the Centre has recommended dividing the affected regions into zones and proceeding with strategic pig culls within these zones. Some organized piggeries in Assam have already seen the impact of ASF, prompting the need for decisive intervention.
Culling is considered the most effective way to halt the spread of ASF, as a vaccine for the disease is currently non-existent. It’s worth noting that ASF should not be confused with Classical Swine Fever (CSF) or H1N1 Swine Flu; while CSF can be prevented with proper vaccination and does not affect humans, ASF solely affects animals and cannot be vaccinated against.
The Nature of African Swine Fever
African Swine Fever is an acutely lethal disease known for causing hemorrhagic fever in pigs. Initially detected in Africa during the 1920s, ASF infects both domestic and wild pigs and is notorious for its near-total mortality rate. Since there are no existing cures for ASF, the only viable method of stopping its spread involves culled populations.
While ASF might not pose a direct threat to humans, its prevalence among animals makes it a considerable concern to the global animal health community. Due to its significant impact on animal health, ASF is listed in the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Terrestrial Animal Health Code, making it a condition that must be reported to the OIE.
The Role of World Organisation for Animal Health
Originally formed as an intergovernmental organization focused on improving worldwide animal health, the OIE boasts a total of 182 member countries as of 2018 – India included. Notably, the OIE also holds the responsibility of setting international sanitary rules, which have been recognized by the World Trade Organization as reference standards. This Paris-headquartered organization plays a crucial role in guiding and coordinating global efforts in the area of animal health. Notably, it helps direct strategies aimed at containing contagious diseases like ASF that have broad-scale implications on animal husbandry and related sectors.
Last Modified: February 7, 2024