African Swine Fever (ASF) poses a severe threat to pig populations around the world, including in Antigua & Barbuda. This highly contagious viral disease affects both domestic and wild pigs, often resulting in heavy losses for farmers. ASF does not affect humans, but its impact on animal health and the agriculture economy is significant. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy remains dedicated to supporting local farmers in preventing and managing the risks associated with ASF.
What Is African Swine Fever?
African Swine Fever is a deadly viral disease for pigs, characterised by high fever, loss of appetite, skin reddening, and high mortality rates. The virus is resilient, surviving in pork products and on contaminated equipment or clothing for long periods. There is no vaccine or cure, making prevention and strict biosecurity measures essential.
Do’s: Best Practices for Preventing ASF
Practice Strong Biosecurity:
Limit access to pig farms—only essential personnel should enter pig pens.
Use disinfectant footbaths and require all visitors to wear clean clothing and boots.
Regularly clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles, and facilities.
Source Animals Responsibly:
Only purchase pigs from reputable sources with no ASF history.
Quarantine new pigs for at least 30 days before mixing them with the main herd.
Feed Pigs Safely:
Do not feed pigs with swill, food scraps, or meat products, as these can carry the ASF virus.
Use only commercial or properly processed feed.
Monitor Herd Health:
Check pigs daily for symptoms of illness, including fever, lethargy, or skin changes.
Report any unusual sickness or deaths immediately to veterinary authorities.
Dispose of Carcasses Properly:
Promptly report and safely dispose of any dead pigs according to guidance from the Ministry of Agriculture.
Don’ts: Actions to Avoid
Do not bring pork products onto the farm from unknown or unregulated sources.
Do not allow visitors who have been in contact with pigs abroad onto your farm without proper quarantine procedures.
Do not share equipment, tools, or vehicles with other farms unless they have been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Do not ignore signs of illness or delay notifying authorities if ASF is suspected.
Do not move pigs off your property without ensuring they are healthy and authorised by the relevant authorities.
How Farmers Should Care for Their Animals Now
Given the risk of ASF, farmers in Antigua & Barbuda must maintain heightened vigilance and biosecurity. Key steps include:
Keep pig enclosures secure and minimise external contact.
Work with your local veterinary officer to develop an emergency response plan for suspected ASF cases.
Educate farm workers and family members about ASF symptoms and reporting procedures.
Review your farm’s biosecurity plan regularly and update it based on current recommendations from the Ministry.
Support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy
The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy is fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s livestock and supporting farmers in the face of ASF. Farmers can expect:
Access to information and training on ASF prevention and biosecurity.
Prompt veterinary support for suspected cases of ASF.
Guidance on animal movement, quarantine, and carcass disposal regulations.
Assistance with emergency response planning and risk assessment.
If you have concerns or need help, contact your local extension officer or the Ministry directly. Together, we can protect Antigua & Barbuda’s pig industry and ensure a safe food supply.
Conclusion
Preventing African Swine Fever requires the commitment of every farmer, worker, and stakeholder in Antigua & Barbuda. By following these do’s and don’ts and collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & Blue Economy, we can reduce the risk of ASF and safeguard the future of our local agriculture sector.