Hog producers are being reminded of the importance of using strict biosecurity procedures, following confirmation of several cases of African swine fever in China. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and the Iowa Pork Producers Association are encouraging farmers to be on the lookout for clinical signs of ASF and to contact a veterinarian if they have herd health concerns.

“Unfortunately, a significant number of cases of African swine fever have now been confirmed in China across a large geographic region,” says Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. China has about 700 million pigs, or half the world’s swine population, so these discoveries are a serious concern.”

Naig adds, “While this virus poses no threat to human health or any food safety concern, it could have a devastating economic impact if it would be found in the U.S. Our pork producers do a great job with biosecurity and protecting pig health, and the new cases highlight the importance of everyone remaining diligent in their biosecurity efforts.”

Signs of ASF can be variable but often include high fever, decreased appetite and weakness. The pig’s skin may be reddened, blotchy or have blackened lesions. Infected pigs may also have diarrhea, vomiting, coughing and difficulty breathing. Currently, no vaccine or treatment exists.

Virus spreads quickly
The virus is easily spread between pigs by direct contact or indirectly from contact with contaminated objects. The virus can survive in the environment, on shoes and clothing, vehicles, and in feed components.

Uncooked or undercooked meat (including refrigerated and frozen products) can carry the virus, making the feeding of food waste to pigs a pathway to spread the disease. Ticks, flies and other insects may also spread the virus.

Feed ingredients imported may also be a potential source of disease transport, and producers should evaluate feed ingredient sources for potential risk.

In addition to China, the disease had previously been detected in Russia, eastern Europe and Africa. While it hasn’t been found in the U.S. yet, ASF is a reportable foreign animal disease (FAD). Suspicious cases should be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture or USDA Veterinary Services, especially when higher-than-normal mortality is evident.

Biosecurity important for farmers
Farmers can take steps to protect their animals and prepare for a possible FAD event. Maintaining a high level of on-farm biosecurity is the best protection. Tips include:

• Ensure biosecurity plans are up to date and being implemented. This includes using a disinfectant specifically labeled for ASF.

• Proactively follow industry best management practices if hosting international visitors or traveling abroad. More information is available online.

• Obtain or update premises identification number for each location where swine are located. Forms to complete or update premises registration information is at IDALS. For more information, contact the department’s animal ID coordinator at 888-778-7675 or [email protected].

• Work with a veterinarian to use electronic certificates of veterinary inspection or Swine Production Health Plan herd agreements for all animal movements.

Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture