Article:
The recent weeks have seen a surge in the death toll of pigs in certain districts of eastern Assam. The cause, as per reports, is the fatal Classical Swine Fever (CSF), which has claimed more than 1,300 pig lives within a week’s span. This disturbing development has added to the concerns of pig farmers who are already grappling with the aftermath of the Covid-19 lockdown.
The Impact on Assam’s Pig Farming
Assam has the highest number of farmed pigs in India, as per data from the 20th livestock census conducted from 2012-2019. This makes the current crisis particularly significant as it directly impacts the region’s thriving pork market, estimated to be worth more than $1 billion. Notably, statistics reveal that Assam and the other seven north-eastern states combined consume over 65% of the country’s total pork output, which stands at 4.26 lakh metric tonnes.
Understanding Classical Swine Fever
Often referred to as hog cholera, Classical Swine Fever is a viral infection that exclusively targets domestic and wild swine. Unlike the Swine Flu (H1N1) virus that can infect humans, CSF is specific to pigs. The spread of this fever can be arrested with timely vaccination of the animal population. However, the situation becomes nuanced with the existence of another swine fever variant, the African Swine Fever.
Prevention and Control Measures
Crucially, there is no established treatment route for pigs afflicted by CSF. The standard procedure involves slaughtering the infected pigs and disposing of their remains through either burial or cremation. The first step towards averting a CSF outbreak involves the strict implementation of sanitary measures. Furthermore, vaccination plays a pivotal role in halting the spread of CSF among swine herds. The requirements for a country or zone to achieve the ‘CSF-Free’ status are outlined in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code.
About the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)
The World Organisation for Animal Health, known as the OIE, is an intergovernmental body that is primarily aimed at enhancing global animal health. As of 2018, it comprises 182 member countries, including India. The sanitary standards instituted by the OIE are globally recognized and endorsed by the World Trade Organization. The organization operates from its headquarters located in Paris, France.
In light of the current situation in Assam, greater emphasis on stringent preventive measures, swift action, and unwavering commitment to animal health is needed more than ever before. The proactive enforcement of these strategies can certainly mitigate potential damage and help restore the normalcy in the affected areas.
