Photo by Steve Wilson CC by 2.0
African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease of domestic and wild pigs. While ASF has not been found in the United States, recent outbreaks in Asia and Eastern Europe have highlighted the importance of taking preventive measures to protect susceptible species in your collection from this viral disease, particularly if any staff or visitors may have recently traveled to countries where the disease has been found. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ASF information page and National Pork Board (NPB) Foreign Animal Disease Resource page both contain a number of excellent resources to help you learn more and prepare.
Additional Resources:
- African Swine Fever Factsheet
- Center for Food Security and Public Health
- Biosecurity for Pigs with Outdoor Access
- Feral Swine: Impacts on Threatened and Endangered Species
- Feral Swine: Impacts on Game Species
- International Travel Biosecurity
- Hosting International Visitors
- NPB Show Pig Resources
- American Association of Swine Veterinarians
- www.securepork.org
Anyone who works with pigs should be familiar with the signs of ASF:
- High fever
- Decreased appetite and weakness
- Red, blotchy skin or skin lesions
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Coughing and difficulty breathing
Suspected cases of ASF should be reported to your State Animal Health Official (SAHO) or Area Veterinarian in Charge (AVIC).
Foreign Animal Diseases such as ASF have the potential to be used as biological terror agents. If you see any suspicious activity around your facility you can report it by calling 855-TELL-FBI (855-835-5324) or contacting the Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Directorate Coordinator at your local field office.