A new case of African Swine Fever (ASF), a deadly viral disease that rapidly spreads among pigs and has no cure, has been confirmed in Lviv Oblast.
Outbreak Details
Recently, the bodies of six wild boars were discovered in a forested area near Sukhorichchia village, which is part of the Pidberiztsi Territorial Community in Lviv District. Laboratory tests confirmed that African Swine Fever was the cause of their deaths.
ASF affects both domestic and wild pigs. The virus spreads through:
- Direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids.
- Contaminated feed, water, and equipment.
- Clothing, vehicles, and other objects that have been in contact with infected pigs.
This disease is highly lethal, causing the death of infected pigs within days.
Quarantine Measures
To contain the outbreak, the Epizootic Commission at the Lviv District Administration has imposed quarantine restrictions in 3- and 10-kilometer zones around the infection site. Regular inspections of domestic pigs will be carried out in these zones. If ASF symptoms are detected, additional measures will be taken to eliminate the disease.
On March 18, authorities plan to dispose of infected carcasses by burning them, significantly reducing the risk of further virus spread.
Previous ASF Outbreaks in Lviv Oblast
This is not the first case of African Swine Fever in the region:
- September 2017 – First recorded case in Hrozyovo village, Staryi Sambir district.
- August 2019 – Outbreak in Kavs’ke village, Stryi district, where 320 pigs died.
How to Protect Pig Farms from ASF
According to Ihor Tuz, Director of the Department of Civil Protection at the Lviv Regional State Administration, strict adherence to quarantine measures is crucial for preventing further spread of the virus.
Experts recommend:
- Prevent domestic pigs from contacting wild animals. If a wild boar is spotted near the farm, notify the authorities immediately.
- Control farm access. Restrict entry to unauthorized persons who might carry the virus.
- Regularly disinfect facilities. Sanitize animal shelters, equipment, and vehicles used for pig care.
- Use only certified feed. Ensure that feed is properly inspected and safe for consumption.
- Monitor pig health. Early ASF symptoms include high fever, loss of appetite, and swelling. If symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Following these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of an ASF outbreak and help protect pig farms from the devastating disease.