What Measures is Sri Lanka Taking to Combat Swine Fever?
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Synopsis
Sri Lanka is taking serious steps to combat the spread of African swine fever through new regulations. With all districts classified as risk zones, the measures aim to protect the nation’s pig population and ensure public health safety. Learn more about these vital actions and their implications.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka has declared all districts as ASF risk areas.
- New regulations aim to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Pigs are now classified as disease risk animals.
- Slaughtering and processing activities require permits.
- ASF poses significant risks to the agricultural sector.
Colombo, Oct 8 (NationPress) The Department of Animal Production and Health in Sri Lanka has released an extraordinary gazette notification detailing measures aimed at curbing the spread of African swine fever (ASF), as reported by a senior health official to local media on Wednesday.
According to Hemali Abeyrathna Kothalawala, the director general of the Department, all districts in Sri Lanka are now classified as ASF risk zones, and pigs have been identified as disease risk animals.
The gazette is effective as of October 3, 2025, and will remain in force for up to three months from the implementation date, unless it is revoked earlier or extended.
As per the new regulations, several activities are closely monitored. These include the slaughtering of pigs for meat without a transport permit; the sale, display, storage, or distribution of pigs, pork, pork products, or infected materials without appropriate authorization; and any slaughtering, storage, or processing activities in facilities not approved by an authorized officer.
Sri Lanka first faced the threat of African swine fever in 2024, according to reports from Xinhua.
African swine fever is a serious viral disease affecting pigs, caused by the Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV) and African Swine Fever Virus (Asfivirus). These viruses lead to severe illness in pigs and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, their bodily fluids, contaminated feed, and in some cases, ticks.
It is important to note that swine flu, caused by influenza A (H1N1) viruses that originated in pigs, has adapted to spread between humans. This virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and can also spread via contaminated surfaces. Although named after its origin in pigs, it is primarily a human-to-human illness today and is not contracted through the consumption of pork products.
Point of View
It is imperative to emphasize that Sri Lanka's proactive measures against African swine fever reflect a commitment to protecting public health and the agricultural sector. The government’s swift actions aim to mitigate risk and ensure the safety of the nation’s pig population, which is vital for both economy and food security.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is African swine fever?
African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease that affects pigs, caused by specific viruses including the Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV) and African Swine Fever Virus (Asfivirus). It results in severe illness and can be transmitted through direct contact, contaminated feed, and ticks.
What are the new regulations in Sri Lanka regarding ASF?
The new regulations include prohibiting the slaughter of pigs without a transport permit, and the sale or processing of pigs and pork products without authorization. All districts are now considered ASF risk areas.
When do these regulations take effect?
The gazette notification took effect on October 3, 2025, and will remain valid for three months unless revoked or extended.
How does ASF affect public health?
While ASF primarily affects pigs, its impact on the livestock industry can have knock-on effects on food security and economic stability, which in turn can affect public health.
What distinguishes swine flu from African swine fever?
Swine flu is caused by influenza A (H1N1) viruses, which have adapted to spread among humans, while African swine fever specifically affects pigs and is not transmitted to humans through pork consumption.
