Suspected African swine fever kills dozens of pigs in Amuru

Amuru, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | A suspected outbreak of the African Swine Fever (ASF) has killed dozens of pigs in Lakang sub county, Amuru district. Piggery farmers in Kololo and Tee Okuttu parishes say that they first noticed the strange disease in the area last month.

The farmers say the infected pigs present with a discharge of mucus in the mouth and nose, drowsiness, and die within less than three days, a condition similar to the African Swine Fever.

Richard James Odoch Mudos, the LCV councilor of  Tee-Okuttu, which is heavily affected by the disease told URN he lost two pigs to the disease on Monday last week.

Andrew Odora and Bosco Onekalit, both farmers from Tee Okuttu trading centre also say they lost over thirty pigs of different sizes and breeds to the disease. Odoch says that in his area alone, at least fifty pigs have reportedly died after presenting with signs and symptoms of the disease.

Some decomposing carcasses were discovered in the bushes where the pigs are believed to have gone to graze. Odoch says that he reported the matter to the Lakang sub county agricultural officer last week during the production committee meeting. The livestock farmers say that they are currently burying the carcasses of the pigs in a move to stop the disease from spreading further.

An official from Lakang sub county veterinary department who spoke to URN on condition of anonymity because he is not allowed to speak to the media, said that they were yet to receive a report. Samuel Ochor, the Amuru District Veterinary Officer said that he was out of the office and could not comment on the matter.

African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease, which can cause up to 100% mortality among domestic pigs.  It is typically associated with presentations such as high fever, anorexia, cyanosis, incoordination of movements, and recumbence.

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