What is the Impact of African Swine Fever Outbreak in Mizoram?
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Synopsis
Mizoram is grappling with a **devastating African Swine Fever outbreak** that has resulted in the death of over **7,300 pigs** since March. The crisis affects **2,800 families** across multiple districts, posing severe economic challenges. With no vaccine available, officials are considering international options, highlighting the ongoing struggle to control this disease.
Key Takeaways
- Over 7,300 pigs have died due to ASF in Mizoram.
- Approximately 2,800 families are affected across 116 villages.
- Siaha district is the worst hit by the outbreak.
- Efforts to cull 2,900 pigs have been initiated to control the spread.
- Financial losses are estimated to be around Rs 982.16 crore.
Aizawl, Aug 5 (NationPress) Mizoram is currently facing a critical outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) that began in mid-March, leading to the loss of over 7,300 pigs and impacting approximately 2,800 families across 116 villages in seven districts, as reported by officials on Tuesday.
A senior representative from the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department (AHVD) noted that the transmission of this highly contagious disease shows no indication of abating.
In an effort to control the outbreak, 2,900 pigs have already been culled by AHVD teams.
The Siaha district in southern Mizoram has been the most severely impacted, with over 3,300 pig deaths recorded in 38 villages, affecting around 1,250 families. As a containment action, 945 pigs have been culled in this district.
Other districts experiencing the outbreak include Lawngtlai, Khawzawl, Hnahthial, Lunglei, Mamit, and Champhai.
Several AHVD teams are continuously monitoring the affected regions to implement immediate measures against the disease's spread.
On Monday, Mizoram Governor General Vijay Kumar Singh (retd) convened a review meeting with AHVD senior officials to discuss the ongoing ASF crisis in the state.
Deputy Director (DI&E) Dr. Esther Lalzoliani provided a comprehensive update on the ASF scenario in Mizoram, pointing out that the first confirmed case was reported at Lungsen village in Lunglei district on March 21, 2021.
To date, 69,411 pigs have succumbed to ASF, while 52,194 pigs have been culled to prevent further transmission.
The outbreak has impacted 11,382 households, resulting in an estimated financial loss of Rs 982.16 crore, according to officials.
Assistance for controlling animal diseases has resulted in Rs 1,451.915 lakh being disbursed as compensation for culled pigs, along with an additional Rs 477.08 lakh provided through the Mizoram Disaster Management and Rehabilitation (DM&R) Department for pigs lost to the disease.
During Monday's meeting, officials informed the Governor that ASF has become endemic in Mizoram, which necessitates the implementation of a vaccination program as the most feasible approach for containment. However, due to the unavailability of ASF vaccines in India, there is a need to explore importing vaccines from Vietnam, where they are currently being developed.
Officials also raised concerns over difficulties in securing funds from the central government, which has hindered their ability to provide sufficient compensation.
The AHVD has reported that Mizoram is among 14 states chosen for the initial phase of the Pandemic Fund Project, aimed at enhancing its Disease Diagnostic Laboratory with plans for achieving NABL accreditation upon completion.
One official remarked that the Governor expressed serious concerns regarding the devastating consequences of ASF, which has led to significant economic setbacks and disrupted livelihoods throughout Mizoram for the past four years.
Pointing out the department's limited capacity to manage the outbreak on its own, he emphasized the need for improved collaboration with other government sectors and increased public involvement to bolster containment efforts. General Singh (retd) urged all stakeholders to enhance measures against the spread of ASF and mitigate its severe socio-economic repercussions, assuring full support for the Veterinary Department's challenges and proposals.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the ongoing challenges posed by the African Swine Fever outbreak in Mizoram. The situation requires immediate attention from both state and central governments to mitigate the socio-economic effects on affected families. Collaboration among various departments and stakeholders is critical to developing effective containment strategies and supporting the livelihoods of those impacted. Our commitment is to report on these developments with integrity and to advocate for the necessary resources to combat this crisis.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is African Swine Fever?
African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting pigs, causing severe illness and often leading to death.
How has ASF impacted Mizoram?
ASF has resulted in over 7,300 pig deaths and has affected around 2,800 families across 116 villages in Mizoram.
What measures are being taken to control ASF?
Efforts include culling affected pigs, monitoring infected areas, and discussions about a potential vaccination program.
Is there a vaccine for ASF available in India?
Currently, there is no ASF vaccine available in India, leading officials to explore options for importing vaccines from countries like Vietnam.
What financial impact has ASF had on the region?
The outbreak has led to an estimated financial loss of Rs 982.16 crore, significantly affecting local economies.
