Nagaland Veterinary department intensifies surveillance and biosecurity measures amid African Swine Fever outbreak.
Share
DIMAPUR — The Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) , Nagaland, has stated that it is closely monitoring the ongoing outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) affecting various parts of the state.
The department informed that all district veterinary officers and field staff have been actively carrying out surveillance, containment, awareness campaigns, sample collection and biosecurity measures to control the spread of the disease, a DIPR report stated.
According to the department, African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, but clarified that it does not infect humans and is not a public health concern.
Also read: African Swine Fever surveillance intensified in Mon, Medziphema
However, it noted that the disease causes severe economic losses to pig farmers and therefore requires immediate reporting and strict preventive measures.
The department appealed to pig farmers, traders, transporters, village councils, colony authorities and the general public to extend full cooperation with the Veterinary department during the present situation.
It advised the public to immediately report any sudden sickness or death of pigs to the nearest veterinary institution or office, and to avoid unauthorised movement, sale or transportation of pigs and pork products from affected areas. The department also urged farmers to maintain strict farm hygiene and biosecurity practices and cautioned against disposing of dead pigs in rivers, streams, forests or open public areas.
Further, it appealed to the public to avoid panic and refrain from spreading unverified information regarding ASF.
The department also acknowledged the prompt support received from the district administration and appreciated the efforts of chief veterinary officers, veterinary doctors, veterinary field assistants and mobile veterinary units working on the ground to contain the outbreak.
Further, the department requested media houses and the public to disseminate only verified information issued by the department in order to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic.
Reaffirming its commitment, the department stated that it would continue to safeguard the livestock sector and protect the livelihoods of pig farmers across Nagaland through coordinated scientific and administrative interventions.