Recent pig deaths in Bredasdorp are most likely due to African swine fever (ASF). The Cape Agulhas Municipality has issued a public alert stating there is a strong possibility that pigs in the area have contracted the disease.
Reporting team
“The cause is still being confirmed through laboratory testing by the State Veterinary Services,” the alert reads.
The municipality did not specify how many pigs have died, but confirmed that “infected carcasses are being disposed of safely and responsibly.”
A quarantine zone has been set up in collaboration with the State Veterinary Service. According to the alert, all stray and roaming pigs are being relocated to this zone with the help of additional staff deployed for the task.
to monitor the situation 24/7 and only registered pig owners may enter to feed their animals subject to strict biosecurity protocols.
The municipality is urging residents not to move, sell or slaughter pigs from the affected area. Members of the public are encouraged to report any sick or dead pigs to the following emergency numbers: 028 425 5500 of 082 457 1774
Also read: Science behind PRRS resistant pigs shows promise for fight against African swine fever
African swine fever is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs. It spreads quickly and usually results in the death of infected pigs, but it does not affect humans or other animal species.
What Is African Swine Fever?
How it spreads among pigs:
- Direct contact with infected pigs
- Indirect contact with contaminated feed (especially kitchen waste), equipment, vehicles or clothing
- Soft-bodied ticks of the Ornithodoros genus, found in parts of South Africa
- Pork products, carcasses and the environment, since the virus is highly resistant and can survive for long periods, especially in cooler conditions
