Veterinary doctors in Dimapur warn of swine fever-like symptoms in pigs, though no cases are confirmed yet, urging caution and stronger biosecurity measures.
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DIMAPUR — Two government veterinary doctors in Dimapur have raised concern over stray reports of swine fever-like symptoms in pigs, though no cases have been officially confirmed so far.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, one of the doctors said that symptoms resembling swine fever have been observed in pigs reared on a small scale for domestic purposes.
However, no samples have been collected yet for laboratory testing.
The doctor informed that it cannot be confirmed whether the cases are Classical Swine Fever or African Swine Fever until proper tests are conducted.
On testing protocols, he explained that while the department conducts routine screening and sends blood samples to laboratories, specific testing for ASF or CSF is usually initiated only when there is a surge in cases or reports of mass deaths.
Highlighting symptoms, he reminded that while ASF and CSF share similarities, ASF is often marked by sudden death in pigs.
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Advising caution, the vet urged pig rearers to immediately isolate animals showing symptoms and avoid procuring pigs indiscriminately, particularly from markets such as Dillai in Assam.
He also informed that the department’s pig vaccination drive began in early April, stressing that biosecurity, proper nutrition, deworming and timely vaccination are crucial in preventing outbreaks.
In the event of an outbreak, farmers were advised to inform the department for sanitisation and keep pigsties vacant for two to three months before restocking.
He further observed that many pig rearers in Nagaland do not consult veterinarians before or after procuring pigs and often seek help only when situations become serious.
Another government veterinary doctor said that Dimapur remains vulnerable due to its proximity to Assam, stating that the movement and large-scale import of pigs pose a significant risk for the spread of infection.