African Swine Fever
African swine fever (ASF) affects all pigs, including wild boar.
ASF is not the same disease as swine influenza. It does not affect humans.
African swine fever is a notifiable animal disease.
If you suspect it, you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268.
In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office.
Failure to do so is an offence.
Current situation
ASF virus is spreading in parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. In affected areas the disease has been confirmed in wild boar, as well as on farms, smallholdings and in pet pigs.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) are monitoring the situation to assess the risk to the UK pig population.
How to spot ASF
The signs of ASF are very similar to classical swine fever.
The main clinical signs are:
- fever
- depression
- recumbency
- loss of appetite
- lack of energy
- sudden death with few signs beforehand
Other signs can include:
- red or dark skin, particularly on the ears and snout
- discharges from the eyes and nose
- laboured breathing and coughing
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- abortion in pregnant sows
- weakness
- unsteady gait
There are several different strains of ASF.
Pigs infected with mild strains may not become ill or show typical clinical signs.
Severe strains of the disease are generally fatal.
How ASF spreads
The disease is highly contagious. It can spread if healthy pigs:
- eat infectious meat or meat products - the virus survives for a long time in cooked or frozen meat
- have contact with infected pigs or their faeces or body fluids
- have contact with anything contaminated with the virus - such as people, clothing, vehicles and other equipment
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