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

Can persist on infected premises for months
Subacute recovered pigs become antibody-positive carriers
Transfer:
- 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
PCR

Control

No vaccine is available

Prevention:

Boiling swill
Isolation of sick pigs, domestic pigs from wild pigs
Keep pigs on concrete, not soil (to lessen tick contact)