3 weeks ago

African swine fever detected at Thrissur pig breeding unit

African swine fever detected at Thrissur pig breeding unit
African swine fever detected at pig breeding unit in Kerala’s Thrissur · theprint.in

Some pigs in a farm in Kerala got sick with a serious pig disease called African swine fever.

This disease is very dangerous for pigs, but it is safe for people.

That means people cannot catch it from the pigs.

The officials at the farm told everyone not to worry.

To stop the disease from spreading, the government closed off the area around the farm.

Farms near the sick pigs are watched closely to make sure the disease does not jump to other pigs.

Farmers got a list of rules to keep their pigs safe.

For example, new pigs should stay alone for three weeks, and leftover food should be boiled before feeding to pigs.

Farmers must tell a vet right away if any pig gets sick or dies suddenly.

Key facts

Disease
African swine fever (ASF)
Location
Pig Breeding Unit, Kunnamkulam, Thrissur, Kerala
Confirmed by
National Institute for High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal
Infected zone
1-kilometre radius around affected farm
Surveillance zone
10-kilometre radius
Restrictions effective
August 9
Risk to humans
None; affects only pigs
Swill feeding advice
Boil leftover food for at least 20 minutes before feeding

Quotes

Animal Husbandry Department

Official statement, Kerala Animal Husbandry Department

“Concealing the disease, selling off pigs suspected of being infected, or slaughtering them could lead to widespread disease transmission.”
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“Therefore, the public need not be concerned.”
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Dr. Isaac Sam

Chief Veterinary Officer, Kerala

“The disease occurs only in pigs and does not spread to humans or other domestic animals.”
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Sources

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