Malappuram: The district administration in north Kerala has declared several panchayats as surveillance zones after traces of African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious and fatal disease in pigs, were detected in the decomposed carcass of a wild boar. Officials confirmed the discovery on Friday and assured the public that the infection does not spread to humans.

According to the administration, the carcass was discovered in Marutha. Following the confirmation of the disease, District Collector V R Vinod declared Vazhikkadavu, Edakkara, Pothukallu, Chungathara, Karulai, and Muthedam gram panchayats as surveillance zones. These areas all fall within a 10-kilometre radius of the affected site.

Will any pigs be euthanised?

Authorities stated that there are currently no pig farms within a one-kilometre radius of the epicentre. Therefore, there is no need to euthanise any pigs at this time.

However, to prevent further spread, restrictions have been placed on the sale and distribution of pork, the operation of related shops, and the transport of pigs into and out of the surveillance zones.

What restrictions are in place?

The administration announced that the sale and distribution of pigs, pork, and related products have been completely banned in the declared zones. In addition, the transport of pigs and pork to and from these areas is strictly prohibited.

Farmers have been urged to remain alert. If they notice any symptoms similar to those of African swine fever in pigs elsewhere in the district, they must immediately inform the concerned veterinary officer, officials said.

Can the disease affect humans or other animals?

Officials clarified that the virus only affects pigs and cannot be transmitted to humans or other animals. Despite this reassurance, they warned that the absence of a vaccine or effective treatment could result in mass pig deaths if the disease spreads.

What measures are being taken?

Due to the high risk of transmission among pigs, precautionary measures are being implemented across Malappuram to prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of the district. The administration emphasised that strict monitoring and biosecurity checks will continue in all affected and neighbouring regions.

PTI inputs