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

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)

Literature Search

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Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).


Review of African swine fever: transmission, spread and control. Penrith, M. L.; Vosloo, W.; South African Veterinary Association, Pretoria, South Africa, Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, 2009, 80, 2, pp 58-62, 75 ref. - Full Text Article