DIMAPUR: Following the detection of African Swine Fever (ASF) cases in Wokha district, the district administration has declared infected and surveillance zones and imposed a series of restrictions to contain the spread of the highly contagious disease.
In an order, deputy commissioner (DC) Wokha, K. Mhathung Tsanglao, notified the affected areas under Section 6(1) of the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, based on reports received from the chief veterinary officer and animal husbandry office, Wokha.
The infected zone comprised Lower Mt. Tiyi College Area, Wokha Village and Wokha Town under Wokha Block, covering a radius of 1km from the infected premises. The surveillance zone extends up to 10 kilometres from the infected premises, excluding the infected zone.
Citing the highly contagious nature of ASF and its potential impact on the pig population and the livelihoods of farmers, the DC directed strict adherence to standard operating procedures in the notified areas until further orders.
The restrictions include a ban on the slaughter of pigs, import and export of pigs and piglets, and transportation of pigs, pork and pork products from the infected and surveillance zones.
The order also mandates immediate reporting of any unusual pig sickness or mortality, proper disposal of carcasses in accordance with prescribed guidelines, and strict compliance with disinfection and biosecurity protocols.
