Bhandari, October 22 (MExN): The Additional Deputy Commissioner, Bhandari, Longasen Lotha, has directed the lifting of the ban imposed on the slaughter, import, export, and transport of pigs, piglets, and pork from Merapani.
The ban, which came into force in the last week of August, was lifted in the interest of the public based on the advice of Dr. Kikali G. Sumi, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS), Quarantine Check Post, Merapani, stated the order issued by the ADC on October 16.
The ban was imposed following reports of the deaths of a number of pigs from the Village Council Chairman, Merapani, and the Office of the VAS, Merapani, with a view to containing the suspected outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF).
ASF is a highly contagious haemorrhagic viral disease of domestic and wild pigs, often resulting in a 100% mortality rate.
The signs and symptoms of the disease include reddening of the skin, abdomen, legs, and ears, accompanied by fever, loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhoea, as well as abortion in pregnant sows. Most deaths occur within ten days, the VAS had earlier stated, while notifying the public to report cases to nearest Veterinary Health Centres without delay.
