ASF detected in Wokha; DC issues containment measures

DIMAPUR: Following reports of African Swine Fever (ASF) cases in Wokha district from the office of the Chief Veterinary Officer and A.H. Office Wokha, Deputy Commissioner K. Mhathung Tsanglao has declared infected and surveillance zones under Section 6(1) of the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009 to contain the spread of the disease.
According to a DIPR report, the infected zones include Lower Mt. Tiyi College area, Wokha Block, Wokha Village (Wokha Block) and Wokha Town, covering a one kilometre radius from the infected premises. The surveillance zone will extend to a 10 kilometre radius, excluding the one kilometre infected zone.
Highlighting the highly contagious nature of ASF and its severe impact on pig population and farmers’ livelihood, the DC has ordered strict adherence to containment measures. These include a ban on slaughter, import and export of pigs and piglets, prohibition on transportation of pigs, pork and pork products from infected and surveillance zones, immediate reporting of unusual pig sickness or mortality, proper disposal of carcasses as per guidelines, and strict compliance with disinfection and biosecurity protocols. The order will remain in force until further notice.