AFRICAN SWINE FEVER IN THE CARIBBEAN REGION

The Valley, August 9, 2021– The Department of Natural Resources (DNaR) wishes to inform the general public that there has been an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the Dominican Republic according to The Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHSFA), (2021). The Government of Anguilla, in collaboration with Regional and International partners is taking every precautionary measure to prevent the entry of this ASF into Anguilla. This includes relying heavily on strong border control and biosecurity measures to keep infected pigs and contaminated pork products out of Anguilla. The department therefore wishes to advise the public that, with immediate effect, no permits will be issued for the importation of pigs until further notice.

The ASF is a highly contagious viral disease, which affects pigs, and has a mortality (death) rate of up to 100%. The disease can be spread by live or dead pigs and pork products, and in food scraps and food waste generated by air and sea vessels. Transmission can also occur via contaminated feed and fomites (non-living objects) such as shoes, clothes, vehicles, equipment etc. There is no approved vaccine or treatment for ASF. As such, this disease can have serious economic impacts on the pig production industry.
Please note that Anguilla is FREE of the African Swine Fever, and there is NO IMMEDIATE threat to local livestock production. Persons are therefore encouraged to continue their normal consumption patterns of pork and pork products, as there are no health risks involved.

However, as we continue to monitor this situation, all pig farmers are advised to adhere to the following:
? Engage in Proper Farm Management Practices such as proper sanitation of pens and equipment, use of footbaths, and limiting farm visits.
? Do not feed pigs uncooked human food waste.
? Contact Mr. Dwight Carty- Livestock Officer at 1264 476 0973 if you notice any signs or symptoms of ASF.