A surveillance and inspection drive on African Swine Fever (ASF) was carried out in Wokha town and its adjoining villages, including Wokha Village and Vankhosung areas on 15th July under the directive of the Deputy Commissioner, Wokha. The inspection team comprised officials from the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, District Administration, Police, and members of the Wokha Town Council.
The operation was led by Chief Veterinary Officer Wokha, K. N. Zubemo Humtsoe, along with EAC Wokha, Thepfuzakie Sanchu. A total of nine officials from the concerned departments participated in the exercise. The team inspected nine stockyards and eighteen butcher shops and meat outlets, conducting ante‑mortem examinations of fifty‑two live pigs. Body temperatures and clinical signs were monitored, while twenty‑four tissue and meat samples were collected from butcher shops for ASF surveillance. Six random live pigs were screened using ASFV Rapid Detection Kits, and sanitary and hygienic practices at slaughter points and outlets were closely observed. Veterinary health certificates, sources of animals, and transportation documents were also verified to ensure compliance.
The Veterinary Department employed multiple testing methods, including rapid detection kits, temperature monitoring devices, and on‑spot blood sampling for suspected cases. Portions of meat were collected for laboratory analysis, and all animals were checked against valid health and transportation certificates.
The findings of the inspection revealed no clinical signs suggestive of ASF, and all samples tested negative during the exercise. However, authorities emphasized that this does not amount to a declaration of ASF‑free status, and vigilance must continue. The inspection team advised that live pigs should only be sourced from ASF‑free farms and zones with valid veterinary certification, and stressed the importance of strict ante‑mortem and post‑mortem inspections. They further underscored the need for proper hygiene and sanitation in all stockyards and butcher shops, and insisted that every transportation of pigs must be accompanied by valid permits and health certificates issued by competent veterinary authorities.
Officials confirmed that ASF surveillance, sample collection, and rapid testing will continue regularly to ensure early detection. Surprise inspections will also be conducted from time to time to maintain vigilance and safeguard livestock health, farmers’ livelihoods, and public confidence in meat safety.
(DPRO & IA, Wokha)
