African Swine Fever Detected in Pune: Urgent Vaccination Drive Initiated

In a significant development, African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) has been identified in Pune for the first time, leading to the euthanization of two infected pigs.

State authorities swiftly implemented measures including euthanasia of animals within a 1-kilometer radius, amidst concerns over the potential spread of the fatal disease to farms and open areas.

The state’s animal husbandry department was alarmed by the emergence of the first two cases of ASFV, a viral infection known for its 100 percent mortality rate among pigs, in Pune late last month.

Dr. Devendra Jadhav, state deputy director of disease control in animal husbandry, emphasized the necessity of euthanizing infected pigs promptly, as there is currently no cure available. Additionally, officials culled numerous pigs within a 1-kilometer radius of Pune Camp, where the infected pigs were discovered, in an effort to contain the outbreak.

African Swine Fever Virus was initially detected in the northeastern part of India in 2020, although it was successfully controlled at that time. With no known treatment available, vaccination remains the primary preventive measure against ASFV. Dr. Jadhav stressed the importance of vaccination in protecting both domestic and wild pig populations from the disease.

While ASFV is not known to be zoonotic, meaning it does not typically infect humans, it poses a significant threat to pig populations due to its highly contagious nature and severe health implications. Dr. Jadhav noted sporadic cases of ASFV in the state since late last year, with Pune marking the most recent hotspot for the disease.

The exact cause of the viral infection among pigs in Pune remains unclear, prompting authorities to conduct thorough investigations, including sample collection and tracing the travel history of infected animals’ owners. To mitigate the spread of the virus, pet owners, organized pig farm operators, and veterinary professionals are urged to report any symptoms indicative of ASFV, particularly high-grade fever, for prompt intervention.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the state animal husbandry department has requested over 1.6 lakh doses of ASFV vaccine from the central government to vaccinate the pig population across the state. A recent survey revealed a significant increase in the pig population in organized farms, from 14,000 in 2019 to 70,000 presently, underscoring the need for mass vaccination efforts.

ASFV is a highly infectious and severe hemorrhagic disease that manifests with various clinical signs, including high-grade fever, diarrhea with blood, darkening of the skin (especially ears and snout), respiratory symptoms, and weakness.

Given its fatality rate and rapid spread, proactive measures such as vaccination and surveillance are crucial in preventing further outbreaks and safeguarding pig populations from this deadly disease.