Another African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in the Western Cape

Another African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in the Western Cape

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has reported another African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in pigs of small farmers on the outskirts of Groeneweide Park in George.

This is the fourth outbreak of this disease in the Garden Route area since 2022.

Outbreaks in KwaNonqaba and Mossel Bay in 2022 and 2023 which were both resolved; and an outbreak in Thembalethu in 2022 which remains a concern were previously reported.

The area has been placed on quarantine

The department said it is estimated that about 45 pigs are reported to have died in the region thus far.

“It is estimated that about 45 pigs have died thus far with about 250 pigs remaining in the area. The area has been placed under quarantine and community members have been urged to not remove any pigs or pig products from the area to prevent further spread of the disease.

ASF is a virus that affects pigs and there is no vaccination or treatment currently available for the prevention of the disease. Good biosecurity measures remain the best way to protect the pig industry,” the department said.

Usually, the first signs of an ASF outbreak are the sudden death of pigs. But still, in some cases, the department said other symptoms can include breathing difficulties, redness of the skin, especially underneath the pig and on the ears, hind leg weakness and loss of appetite.

George pig owners urged to implement strict biosecurity

Occasionally the pig may also have blood in their faeces and their vomit.

“The department calls on all pig owners to implement strict biosecurity to protect their livestock from this disease and to call their nearest State Veterinary Office should farmers have any concerns,” said the department.

Should these signs be seen, the public is advised to contact their nearby State Veterinary Office at: https://www.elsenburg.com/veterinary-services/animal-health-and-disease-control/.

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