African Swine Fever confirmed in three Kohima villages

Kohima, August 27 (MExN): African Swine Fever (ASF) has been confirmed in Kiruphema Bawe, Chiechama and Nerhema villages in Kohima district following positive laboratory test reports received from the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.In view of the outbreak, Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS, has declared a 1-km radius from the infected premises as an Infected Zone and a 10-km radius as a Surveillance Zone. With immediate effect, the order prohibits the export, import and movement of live pigs and pork products within, into or out of the designated zones. Pork meat markets and butchery shops located within the zones have also been directed to remain closed.Pig farmers have been advised to strictly restrict visitors, disinfect farm premises daily and immediately report any unusual illness or mortality among pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. Suspicious deaths must also be reported promptly to the department.The order further directs that pig carcasses be safely buried in accordance with official protocols. Dumping of carcasses in water bodies or open areas has been strictly prohibited. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and refrain from purchasing or consuming meat from unknown sources. The Deputy Commissioner warned that violators will face legal prosecution under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and other relevant provisions of law.