African Swine Fever: A Review of This Exotic Disease in Brazil

Abstract

African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects domestic and wild swine, and causes mortality rates of up to 100% in the most acute forms. It can be transmitted by direct or indirect contact with infected pigs and contaminated materials, and also by tick vectors. It is considered endemic in Africa but has been causing new outbreaks in Europe, Asia and even Central America in recent years. It is a global threat, because there is no vaccine or treatment for this disease. The recommendation of the World Organization for Animal Health is the sanitary slaughter of all exposed animals, causing great socioeconomic damages. Brazil has already registered the virus in the past and is now considered a country free of the disease. Implements restrictive import and biosecurity policies to prevent reintroduction of the virus. Early detection and diagnosis are the keys to preventing the spread of African Swine Fever, which can derail swine farming in a region for years. This study reviews the literature on the disease, with approaches on etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, necropsy findings, diagnostic methods, therapies, and control and prevention strategies.