Huambo: Veterinary authorities in Huambo province are preparing actions for the possible declaration of a geo-sanitary emergency, following the registration of positive outbreaks of African swine fever, the local director of Veterinary Service, Jorge de Almeida told ANGOP on Tuesday. Jorge de Almeida said that epidemiological surveillance measures are being intensified to contain the spread of the virus, safeguard livestock activity, and the livelihoods of families that depend on pig farming.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the measures include restrictions on the movement of animals, equipment, and products derived from pig farming, within a geographical perimeter of up to 15 kilometers, in addition to strengthening sanitary inspections in markets, fairs, and points of sale. Almeida added that health authorities will also promote awareness campaigns among breeders, veterinarians, and the general public, providing information on the clinical signs of African swine fever and rules for transporting and slaughtering animals.

He added that disinfection campaigns are being organized for the infrastructure through which pigs circulate, as well as the implementation of quarantine zones for animals suspected of having the disease or that have been in contact with confirmed cases. Without specifying when the geo-sanitary barrier might be implemented, he said that the measures adopted will be proportionate to the size of the problem and appropriate to the reality of the region.

Dozens of pigs have died in recent weeks on various farms in Huambo province as a result of the African swine fever outbreak, confirmed by laboratories of the Angolan Veterinary Research Institute (IIVA). African swine fever is a highly contagious viral disease that exclusively affects pigs and is not transmissible to humans. However, it causes high mortality rates and there is no vaccine or effective treatment, with sanitary slaughter being one of the main control measures in case of confirmation.