By: Isuru Parakrama
November 01, Colombo (LNW): In light of a recent outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF), Sri Lanka’s Department of Animal Production and Health has issued an urgent appeal to pig farmers across the nation to visit their nearest veterinary offices for registration of their farms.
This proactive measure is aimed at managing and controlling the spread of the disease, which has now been confirmed in various regions.
The alarming emergence of ASF marks a significant challenge for Sri Lankan agriculture, as it poses a serious threat to pig populations and the livelihoods of farmers.
The Director of the Western Province Animal Production and Health Department, K.K. Sarath, revealed that confirmed cases of the fever have been detected not only in the Western Province but also in Uva, Northern, and North Western provinces.
This widespread occurrence has raised serious concerns among agricultural officials and health authorities.
ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that affects domestic and wild pigs, leading to high mortality rates. The symptoms include fever, weakness, and bleeding, with the disease often resulting in the death of infected animals.
Given its rapid spread and the potential for devastating economic impacts, it is crucial for farmers to comply with the registration request.
By registering their farms, pig owners can ensure they receive timely updates and assistance from veterinary professionals, who can provide guidance on biosecurity measures to prevent further outbreaks.
The registration process is expected to facilitate better tracking and management of the disease, enabling authorities to respond more effectively.
Farmers are urged to monitor their herds closely for any signs of illness and to report any suspicious cases immediately to veterinary officials.
