ASF Prevention Tips

As a farmer, it’s crucial to be aware of and informed about African Swine Fever (ASF), a highly contagious and devastating viral disease that affects pigs. By understanding the disease, its transmission, prevention, and potential impact, you can take proactive steps to protect your pigs and contribute to the overall effort to prevent the spread of ASF. Here are some key points to know:

Nature of ASF:

African Swine Fever is a viral disease that affects domestic and wild pigs. It can cause high mortality rates in infected pigs, leading to significant economic losses for pig farmers and the pork industry. It is even a threat to food security.

Transmission:

ASF can spread through various pathways, including direct contact with infected pigs, contaminated equipment, vehicles, clothing, and feed. Contaminated feeds have been identified as a potential source of ASF transmission, highlighting the importance of feed safety.

Feeds:

Pigs can contract ASF by consuming feedstuffs contaminated with the virus. Swill feeding is the most common cause of ASF contamination.  This underscores the need for proper feed management and sourcing practices. To enhance feed safety, consider using feeds with anti-ASF technology that are specifically designed to reduce the risk of viral contamination.

Water:

If the water source is accidentally contaminated with ASF. It will definitely infect all pigs that drink from the water source.

Boar Rental:

Renting boars that transfer from one farm to another is a very common cause of infection. Whenever a boar gets in contact with a sow which is infected with ASF it automatically becomes as carrier so when it moves to another farm it infects the next farm and so on. Take note the symptoms of  ASF infection appears late so newly infected pigs appear healthy.

Disinfection and Cleaning:

Regularly clean and disinfect your facilities, equipment, and vehicles. Use effective disinfectants recommended for ASF control, paying special attention to areas where feed is stored or prepared. Some other known disinfectants can be used for the purpose if  you have enough knowledge as to factors like temperature, dosage, and other parameters to make them effective.

Wildlife Interaction:

Minimize contact between your pigs and wild boars or other wildlife that could potentially carry the virus. Perimeter fencing and  protective net can help carrier wildlife from contaminating your farm.

Prevention Measures:

• Biosecurity: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of ASF onto your farm. This includes controlling strict access to your farm, practicing proper hygiene, and minimizing contact with other pigs or potentially contaminated personnel or materials.
• Quarantine Procedures: Never introduce new pigs to your farm without quarantine procedures for a good amount of time.
• Avoid Boar Rental: Have your own boar in the farm. Or you may utilize AI sourced from providers with strict biosecurity measures.
• Feed Handling: Properly store and handle feed to prevent contamination. Opt for feeds that incorporate anti-ASF technology, which can provide an added layer of protection against viral transmission.
• Water Management: Always make sure to feed pigs with clean water. Make sure water source is secure from contamination.
• Surveillance: Monitor your pigs regularly for signs of illness, and report any unusual deaths or symptoms to veterinary authorities.
• Avoid Feeding Swill: Do not feed kitchen scraps or food waste to pigs, as this can introduce the virus.
• Proper Fence and Nets: Fence your farm to prevent wild or stray wildlife in contaminating your farm. Nets can also be helpul in preventing flying animals and insects from contaminating your farm.

Education:

Stay informed about ASF through reliable sources such as government agricultural agencies, veterinary experts, and reputable agricultural organizations.

Emergency Response:

Develop an emergency response plan that outlines steps to take in case of an ASF outbreak on your farm. This includes isolation of infected pigs, notifying veterinary authorities, and following quarantine protocols. Your local veterinary office can help you with farm disinfection, proper disposal of ASF infected pigs and quarantine protocols.

Vaccination:

Currently the  vaccine for ASF is still for approval. However, stay updated on developments in vaccine research and consult with veterinary experts for any new information.

Seek Professional Guidance:

If you suspect ASF or encounter unusual symptoms in your pigs, seek immediate veterinary assistance and follow their guidance.

By utilizing feeds with anti-ASF technology and implementing a comprehensive approach to biosecurity and prevention, you can significantly reduce the risk of ASF transmission on your farm. Remember that ASF is a serious disease with significant economic and animal welfare implications, decide to use effective disinfectants and dependable products only. Your dedication to proactive measures will play a crucial role in protecting your pigs and preventing the spread of ASF within the swine industry.