An outbreak of African swine fever has been recorded in Poltava region, resulting in quarantine measures being introduced in four villages, the regional State Emergency Service (SES) reported.
The outbreak began after ten pigs died on a private farm in the village of Milovydivka, Kremenchuk district. The owners reported this to the State Veterinary Service on October 10. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the African swine fever virus.
The next day, October 11, quarantine was imposed not only in Mylovydivka, but also in the nearby villages of Horyslavka, Korzhyvka, and Olefirivka. In addition, protection and surveillance zones were designated in eight more settlements, including the villages of Myrna, Valna, Panivka, Rokyto-Donivka, Mayborodivka, Pashchenivka, Yalyntsi, and Pohrebivska.
What is African swine fever?
African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs of all ages. The disease is accompanied by fever, cyanosis of the skin, and hemorrhages of internal organs. African swine fever is not dangerous for humans, but it is a significant threat to livestock.
Infection occurs through direct contact with the pathogen, which can be transmitted through contaminated feed, pastures or vehicles. In addition, the virus can be carried by birds, humans, rodents, ticks and other animals that have been in contact with sick pigs or their carcasses. Untreated food waste is also a source of infection.
In connection with the outbreak, strict sanitary and quarantine measures have been introduced in the region to prevent the further spread of the disease.
