African Swine Fever Confirmed In Nashik; Strict Measures Enforced
African Swine Fever Confirmed In Nashik; Strict Measures Enforced
Nashik: African Swine Fever has been confirmed in Nashik district. The report from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, has verified the outbreak. Following this confirmation, the District Collector has declared a one-kilometre radius around Pathardi Shivar (NMC dumping ground) as an ‘infected zone’. Additionally, a 10-kilometre area surrounding it has been marked as a ‘surveillance zone’. All pigs within the infected one-kilometre radius are ordered to be culled and scientifically disposed of.
Biosecurity Measures Strengthened
Disinfection of the affected area has been made mandatory, with orders to use sodium hydroxide, hypochlorite, formalin and similar chemicals for sanitisation. Officials have been directed to increase biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of African Swine Fever.
Feeding Pigs Leftover Food Banned
Registration of pig meat-selling establishments has been made compulsory, and regular inspections by veterinarians have been mandated. Stray pig rearing has been banned. Authorities have instructed close monitoring of deaths among both domestic and wild pigs. Feeding leftover food from households or hotels to pigs has been strictly prohibited.
Special Instructions to Police
Storing waste at pig farms or meat outlets has been banned, and such waste must be immediately disposed of. Awareness campaigns among farmers, traders and butchers have been made compulsory. Police and check posts have been instructed to prevent illegal transportation of pigs from neighbouring states.
What Is This Disease? Does It Affect Humans?
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious and fatal viral disease affecting pigs. The only relief is that it does not spread from pigs to humans. However, the mortality rate among pigs can reach up to 100%. Symptoms typically appear 3–10 days after infection. In some cases, pigs appear slightly ill before dying suddenly. The symptoms are similar to Classical Swine Fever (Hog Cholera), making lab tests essential for confirmation.
There is currently no vaccine or treatment for ASF. Once confirmed, all pigs at the affected farm must be culled. The disease is notifiable, meaning farmers must inform the government if they suspect their pigs are infected.
