On July 14, in the areas surrounding Kundapur and Byndoor, a series of pig deaths has been reported, with both wild boars and domestic pigs succumbing to the unknown cause. The post-mortem examination reports are still pending, but officials suspect African Swine Fever (ASF) as the possible cause. Two wild boar and one domestic pig samples have been sent to laboratories in Mangalore and Bengaluru for further examination. The public is advised to exercise caution and communicate with officials to prevent the spread of the disease.
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease affecting pigs, with no cure or vaccine available. It was first detected in Africa and later found in India, specifically in the northeastern states and recently in Udupi district. The disease is characterized by high fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and can spread rapidly among pigs through direct contact, water, and air.
Officials estimate that there are around 15,000 to 20,000 wild boars in the Western Ghats region, and if the deaths are indeed caused by ASF, it could pose a significant threat to the entire population. The disease can be controlled by culling infected pigs, disinfecting the area, and imposing a buffer zone to prevent further spread.
The department of animal husbandry and health will monitor the situation closely, and people are advised to report any suspicious pig deaths to the authorities immediately. While there is no need to panic, it is essential to take preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi