African Swine Fever Kills Exotic Pig Breeds in Zambia
ZAMBIA - The Zambian veterinary authorities have reported an outbreak of African swine fever in Lusaka.The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) received an immediate notification on 19 November. The outbreak was initially observed on 8 November and confirmed on 14 November after gene sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests were conducted at the University of Zambia's Veterinary Laboratory, confirming the presence of the ASF virus.
According to the report, 30000 pigs were found susceptible, out of which 60 cases were reported. Out of the 60 affected animals, 50 deaths were reported. No animals were destroyed and/or slaughtered.
The report states that the cases are on commercial and semi-commercial farms rearing exotic pig breeds (mainly landrace, large white and crosses, etc.). The pigs are housed in permanent buildings and mortalities have involved both young and old.
According to the OIE, epidemiological investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the outbreak and its extent.
Quarantine, movement control inside the country, screening and zoning are some of the measures that have been applied to control the situation.