African swine fever outbreak in Vietnam: Symptoms, risks, and how to prevent it

African swine fever (ASF) has returned with force in Vietnam, prompting an urgent directive from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to tighten disease control efforts across the country.

Since January, more than 514 outbreaks have been reported in 28 of Vietnam’s 34 provinces and cities. Over 30,000 pigs have either died from the disease or been culled to prevent its spread, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam.At present, 248 outbreaks remain active in 20 provinces—many of them major pig-rearing zones—raising alarm over the risk of wider transmission.In this context, the government of Vietnam has ordered strict measures to prevent any further spread of the flu.

As per local reports, authorities have been told to activate all available resources, enhance surveillance, and respond swiftly to new cases. Immediate culling of infected or suspected pigs is mandated under current protocols, with support promised for affected farmers.The government has also ordered a crackdown on the illegal transport and sale of pigs, especially those infected or not properly quarantined.

Understanding ASF

ASF was first reported in East Africa in the early 1920s as an acute hemorrhagic fever that caused the death of almost all infected domestic pigs. It remained confined to Africa until 1957, when it appeared in Portugal. ASF has since spread to Europe, Asia, and the Americas, causing significant economic losses to the swine industry. 2018 saw one of the worst cases of ASFV in China. The outbreak led to a substantial decrease in the pig population, with the number of hogs dropping by 40.5% and sows by 39.3% between August 2018 and August 2019.African swine fever is a viral disease affecting pigs, both domestic and wild. It spreads easily and has a near-100% fatality rate in infected animals. Though not harmful to humans, ASF’s impact on livestock can lead to pork shortages, price hikes, and disruptions in international trade. As for the vaccine, in 2023, Vietnam approved the domestic commercial use of its first home-grown African swine fever vaccines, but officials said the rate of vaccinated pigs remains low.

Signs to watch out for

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, signs to watch for include:High feverSudden loss of appetiteWeakness and depressionVomiting or diarrheaRespiratory distressAbortions in pregnant sowsBlotchy or discolored skinUnexplained sudden deathsHow to prevent fever from spreadingFor those working in agriculture, the best protection is vigilance. Authorities advise farmers to limit pig contact with feral swine, avoid feeding food waste that might contain contaminated pork, and tighten on-farm biosecurity. Further, for anyone traveling back from countries where ASF is present is urged not to bring back any pork products, as the virus can survive in cured meats and processed foods.