African Swine Fever (ASF) has been confirmed in Kiruphema Bawe, Chiechama and Nerhema villages under Kohima district, following positive laboratory test reports received from the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.

In view of the outbreak, the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, has declared a 1-km radius from the infected premises as an Infected Zone, while a 10-km radius has been declared as a Surveillance Zone.

With immediate effect, the order prohibits the export, import and movement of live pigs and pork products within, into or out of the designated zones. Pork meat markets and butchery shops located within the zones have also been directed to close.

Pig farmers have been advised to strictly restrict visitors, disinfect farm premises daily and immediately report any unusual illness or mortality among pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. Suspicious deaths are also to be reported promptly to the department.

The order further directs that carcasses be safely buried in accordance with official protocols, while dumping of carcasses in water bodies or open areas has been strictly prohibited.

The public has been urged to remain vigilant and refrain from purchasing or consuming meat from unknown sources.

The Deputy Commissioner warned that any person violating the directives will face legal prosecution under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and other relevant provisions of law.

(DPRO Kohima)