African Swine Fever confirmed in three Kohima villages

African Swine Fever (ASF) has been confirmed in the Kiruphema Bawe, Chiechama, and Nerhema villages within the Kohima district following positive laboratory test reports.

In response, Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem has established an ‘Infected Zone’ within a 1-km radius of the infected premises and a ‘Surveillance Zone’ within a 10-km radius. Immediate restrictions have been imposed on the import, export, and movement of live pigs and pork products within and around these designated zones. Additionally, pork markets and butchery shops operating in the affected areas must close.

Authorities have instructed pig farmers to restrict visitors, perform daily disinfection of premises, and report any unusual pig mortality to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. Carcasses must be disposed of through safe burial protocols; dumping them in water bodies or open areas is strictly prohibited. Violators may face legal action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009.