Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 27 (UNI) African Swine Fever (ASF) has been confirmed in Kerala, prompting authorities to enforce strict containment measures in Thrissur district to prevent the spread of the disease.
The outbreak was reported in Ward 6 of Mulankunnathukavu grama panchayat after samples tested positive at the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.
Following confirmation, the Animal Husbandry Department swung into action with a Rapid Response Team deployed to the affected area.
A one-kilometer radius around the infected farm has been declared a containment zone, while a 10-kilometer stretch has been brought under surveillance. District Collector Arjun Pandiyan has directed the District Animal Husbandry Officer to strictly enforce restrictions, sources said.
Transportation of pigs to other districts, distribution of pork meat, and functioning of retail outlets selling such products have been prohibited. The steps are being implemented in line with the union Government’s action plan to check the spread of ASF.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Isaac Sam clarified that African Swine Fever affects only pigs and does not spread to humans or other animals.
Urging the public not to panic, he stressed that the disease poses no health risk to people and that the restrictions are solely aimed at protecting livestock.
The Rapid Response Team on the ground comprises senior officials, including District Animal Husbandry Officer Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Deputy Director Dr. Deena, Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Isaac Sam, Assistant Project Officer Dr. Manju, and Assistant Directors Dr. Ajay, Dr. Aneesh Raj, and Dr. Pradeep, along with veterinary surgeons, livestock inspectors, and support staff.
Their immediate mandate is to enforce containment protocols, monitor the situation, and safeguard unaffected regions of the district.
African Swine fever confirmed in Kerala
