Health authorities in Kerala's Thrissur district have ordered the culling of hundreds of pigs after a confirmed outbreak of the highly contagious African Swine Fever (ASF). The action targets four farms located in the Kadangode area near Erumapetty.
Immediate Culling Ordered Within 1km Radius
The decision to cull the animals was announced by the district's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Isaac Sam. He confirmed that the presence of the African Swine Fever virus was detected in samples from one of the farms. As a standard containment protocol, all pigs within a one-kilometer radius of the infected site must be destroyed to prevent further spread.
Approximately 300 pigs are estimated to be housed across the four farms falling within this critical zone. The culling operation is scheduled to be carried out on Thursday.
Extended Surveillance Zone Established
Beyond the immediate culling, authorities are implementing a broader monitoring framework. Dr. Sam stated that an extensive surveillance area covering a 10-kilometer circumference around the affected farms will be maintained.
This surveillance zone will remain actively monitored for the next couple of months. The measure is crucial for early detection of any potential new cases and to ensure the disease is fully contained, protecting the wider livestock population in the region.
Understanding the Threat: African Swine Fever
African Swine Fever is a severe viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs. It is characterized by high fever, loss of appetite, hemorrhages in the skin and internal organs, and death rates can approach 100%. It is important to note that ASF does not infect humans and is not a food safety risk. However, its economic impact on pig farmers and the meat industry is devastating due to the high mortality in animal populations and the strict trade restrictions it triggers.
The outbreak in Kadangode highlights the constant vigilance required in animal husbandry. The swift response by the veterinary department in Thrissur follows established disease control protocols aimed at eradicating the virus from the local environment and preventing a wider epidemic.
