Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Authorities in Kohima have launched an emergency containment effort after laboratory tests confirmed an outbreak of African Swine Fever in Thizama village. The discovery follows a report from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, marking another expansion of the viral crisis that has already impacted Mokokchung, Mon, Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Tseminyu, and Phek.
Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem issued a formal order establishing a one-kilometer infected zone around the affected farm and a ten-kilometer surveillance radius. The directive mandates a complete halt to the import, export, and movement of live pigs and pork products within these areas. To stop the spread, all local butcher shops and pork markets are required to close until officials provide further notice.
The administration has instructed pig farmers to increase biosecurity by disinfecting their facilities daily and limiting farm visitors. According to the official order, carcasses must be buried following specific veterinary protocols, as the disposal of remains in rivers, streams, or open fields is strictly prohibited. The district warned that failure to comply will result in legal consequences, stating that "any violation of the containment measures would invite legal action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and other relevant provisions of law."
While African Swine Fever is not transmissible to humans, the disease is frequently fatal for pigs. The ongoing outbreaks across the state continue to cause significant economic strain on farmers and disrupt the regional pork supply chain.
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