September 27, 2024

North American leaders address ASF threat at Ottawa, Canada forum

The fourth annual North American African Swine Fever (ASF) Forum, held in Ottawa, Canada, brought together government and industry leaders to discuss the ongoing threat of ASF to the Americas, National Hog Farmer reported.

This forum, first hosted by Canada in 2019, rotates between the US, Mexico, and Canada to promote regional cooperation in preventing and mitigating the impact of ASF in the region.

Following the event, Canada's Chief Veterinary Officer, Mary Jane Ireland, issued a statement highlighting the forum's importance. She underscored the shared commitment to protecting North America's swine herds and pork industry from ASF, a serious disease that poses a significant threat to the region.

"Canada was proud to host the 4th North American African Swine Fever Forum, which brought together international and domestic experts, industry leaders, and government representatives," Ireland stated. "This forum demonstrates our shared commitment to protecting North America's swine herds and the pork sector from the serious threat of ASF."

Over the course of three days, participants discussed progress made in ASF prevention and preparedness while identifying future actions to protect North America from the potential impact of an ASF detection. The forum reviewed successful preventive measures and preparedness strategies developed over the years. These include improvements in biosecurity and border security.

Forum participants also collaborated on enhancing business continuity and preparedness plans to mitigate the risk of ASF in North America.

The forum also explored the challenges of managing ASF in wild swine populations and discussed strategies to control the spread of the disease. Discussions included advancements in research to better understand ASF, including efforts toward vaccination. Insights from the forum will strengthen surveillance, early detection, and response measures.

"As we look to the future, we must stay vigilant, proactive, and united in our fight against ASF. I am confident that our continued collaboration will help protect our pigs and the pork industry from the impacts of a potential ASF threat," Ireland said.

She also thanked all forum participants for their collaboration, particularly Dr Rosemary Sifford, Chief Veterinary Officer of the US, and Dr Juan Gay Gutiérrez, Chief Veterinary Officer of Mexico.

-      National Hog Farmer