African Swine Fever
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Introduction
African Swine Fever ocurs after infection by the Asfarviridae family of viruses. ASF is a serious exotic virus that should not be confused with Classical Swine Fever.
Clinical Signs
Acute Virus (Africa)
- Nasal discharge, diarrhoea, reddening of the skin
- Death within 7 days
- PM: widespread internal hemorrhage
Subacute Virus (Europe)
- Mortality: 30-70%
- Survivors may lose body condition, have skin ulcers and joint swelling
- PM: Petechial hemorrhages may be seen under kidney capsule
Epidemiology
The virus can persist on infected premises for months. Subacute recovered pigs become antibody-positive carriers.
- Viral transfer occurs as follows:
- Africa: vertical transfer between soft ticks
- Europe/Africa: direct contact with carrier pigs, aerosol, infected swill, etc.
Diagnosis
- Mortalities with widespread hemorrhage, particularly in lymph nodes
- Test to distinguish from Classical Swine Fever and Porcine Circoviruses
- Immunofluorescence and PCR test are available for confirmation
Control
No vaccine is available.
Prevention control measures include:
- Boiling swill
- Isolation of sick pigs and domestic pigs from wild pigs
- Keep pigs on concrete, not soil (to lessen tick contact)