Shillong: The Meghalaya government has reported that the recent African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak is largely under control. Principal Secretary of the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, F.R. Kharkongor, confirmed that case numbers are trending downward across the state.
To manage the situation, authorities have activated 162 rapid response teams and task forces. These groups are actively monitoring areas where the virus was detected, specifically in the East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, West Khasi Hills, and Eastern West Khasi Hills districts. Kharkongor noted that the current infections are not unique to Meghalaya, as similar outbreaks have affected other northeastern states.
Addressing the impact on local agriculture, Kharkongor stated, "The fresh cases are negligible." The government is currently providing financial support of Rs 4,000 to farmers for every pig lost to the disease. Officials are also exploring vaccination options, noting that some potential solutions are in the trial phase. Regarding long-term prevention, Kharkongor added, "Once the vaccines are there, it will solve 99.9 per cent of the concerns."
While health officials maintain that pork remains safe for consumption, they continue to advise citizens to follow proper safety and precaution measures when handling or preparing meat.
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