October 30, 2023

ASF detected in Manipur, India

The state government of Manipur, India has identified three swine farms in the region as the epicentre of an African swine dever (ASF) outbreak, following a notification by the Manipur Veterinary and Animal Husbandry department, Imphal Free Press reported.

The department's report confirmed the presence of ASF among swine in several districts of Manipur state, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Kamjong, Bishnupur, and Thoubal. The laboratory findings led to the designation of specific areas in these districts as controlled zones for ASF.

The areas within a 10 km radius of each affected farm be designated as controlled areas for ASF, effective immediately, with the aim of preventing, controlling, and eradicating the scheduled disease.

Following the provisions of India's Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Disease in Animals Act, 2009, areas within a 1 km radius of the swine farms have been declared as infected zones.

To prevent the disease's spread, the notification prohibits the movement of swine (living or deceased), the sale and transport of pork, feed, and materials that may have come into contact with infected or suspected animals. Culling of all swine in the infected zone will be carried out by officials from the Manipur Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department, following appropriate protocols. Equipment, tools, and vehicles used on these farms will be subject to movement restrictions unless proper protocols are adhered to.

-      Imphal Free Press