Outbreak of African Swine Fever in Barahakshetra, 36 pigs dead

Nepal Health News, Inaruwa, Sunsari —An outbreak of African Swine Fever in Barahakshetra Municipality of Sunsari has resulted in the death of 36 pigs so far. The disease, which has spread rapidly among commercially raised pig farms, has left local farmers deeply concerned.

According to Dr. Manoj Kumar Mahato, head of the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Services Expert Center in Inaruwa, 20 pigs were found infected at the Diyali Agriculture Farm located in Barahakshetra Ward No. 1, out of which 17 have already died. Similarly, 15 pigs were infected at Barah Pig Farm, with 7 reported dead.

Likewise, at a farm operated by local Subash Shrestha, 22 pigs were confirmed to be infected with swine fever, and 12 have died.

Dr. Mahato stated that a total of 57 pigs have been infected so far in Barahakshetra alone, with 36 deaths. Prior to this, cases of infection were also reported in Duhabi, Ramdhuni, and Dharan areas of Sunsari.

African Swine Fever is a viral disease that affects pigs and has a direct impact on the livestock industry. While there is currently no evidence that the disease spreads to humans, experts warn that it has a high mortality rate in animals and requires strict preventive measures.

Dr. Mahato urged pig farmers in the affected areas to enforce strict quarantine and biosecurity measures, and to immediately report to the concerned authorities.