ASF Awareness Workshop: Strengthening Antigua’s Defense Against African Swine Fever by Brent Simon
On November 21, 2024, the Veterinary and Livestock Division within the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy in Antigua hosted an ASF Awareness Workshop to address the potential threat of African Swine Fever (ASF). The workshop aimed to equip a small group of government technicians from various units within the Ministry, with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent ASF from reaching Antigua.
With its devastating impact on pig farming and food security, ASF poses a significant risk to the nation and other Caribbean countries. Following its detection in the Dominican Republic and Haiti in 2021, a 2023 report stated that this epidemic has since then spread to 46 countries.
ASF is a highly contagious viral disease affecting pigs. Although progress has been made in developing vaccines, particularly the AVAC ASF live attenuated vaccine, its rollout remains limited. The AVAC vaccine has shown promise in reducing the severity of outbreaks and preventing death in vaccinated pigs, but concerns remain about its long-term effectiveness and the potential risks of using live vaccines, such as reversion to virulence. As a result, reliance on prevention through strict biosecurity remains the most effective strategy for ASF control.
The workshop began with an Opening Prayer by Dr. Chere Kellman and remarks from Dr. Tubal Edwards, who emphasized the importance of ASF prevention for the twin island agricultural economy. Participants then engaged in an icebreaker led by Ms. Alexandria Dowdy, setting a collaborative tone for the day.
The core of the program was the ASF Presentation by Dr. Diandra Payne, which covered:
Symptoms: High fever, skin discoloration, internal hemorrhaging, sudden death in peracute cases and death in 6-9 hours in acute cases, with chronic cases leading to weight loss and slower progression.
Transmission: ASF spreads via infected pigs, contaminated feed, and equipment, as well as ticks and wild boars. The virus’s ability to survive in processed pork products and the environment increases its risk.
Economic Risks: An outbreak could devastate Antigua’s pig farming sector, disrupt livelihoods, and necessitate costly containment measures.
Dr. Payne highlighted that despite vaccine advancements, strict biosecurity measures are still the most reliable way to prevent ASF. These include isolating pigs, sanitizing farm equipment and instruments, and regulating imports of pigs and pork products from ASF-affected regions.
Participants engaged in a group activity session led by Dr. Payne, where they discussed ASF scenarios and prevention strategies. This was followed by a team-building exercise facilitated by Ms. Shari Ryan, encouraging collaboration and problem-solving. Such interactive sessions reinforced the importance of vigilance and community effort in ASF prevention.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Payne urged stakeholders to strengthen biosecurity, promptly report suspicious symptoms in pigs, and follow import restrictions. The Ministry of Agriculture committed to ongoing public awareness efforts and collaboration with regional organizations like the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) and FAO to bolster ASF defenses.
While the AVAC ASF live vaccine represents a promising tool, Dr. Payne stressed that it should complement, not replace, biosecurity measures. Its limited availability and ongoing assessments of safety and effectiveness mean prevention remains Antigua’s primary defense against ASF.
The ASF Awareness Workshop showcased the country’s proactive approach to protecting its pig farming industry and food security. By fostering awareness and regional cooperation, Antigua and Barbuda is building a united front to keep ASF at bay, setting an example for other Caribbean nations.
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