Abstract

African swine fever (ASF) is a threat to food security globally. A medium-scale peri-urban farmer in Abuja, Nigeria, reported the death of 8 out of 21 pigs over 7 days. Some died suddenly, while others showed loss of appetite and weakness. Post-mortem findings revealed hyperemic enlargement of the spleen, and lymph node enlargement and haemorrhage were observed. The farmer's description of clinical signs was vague, suggesting a limited resemblance to ASF acute infection. However, to rule out ASF, a detailed diagnosis was carried out. Confirmation was obtained via serology, PCR, virus isolation and immunoblotting, as described by the WOAH manual. In addition, applying disinfectant daily for 7 days significantly halted mortality to zero and the survival of all piglets and some sows on the farm. All samples (blood and faeces) subsequently collected were negative for ASF antigen detection using RT-PCR by 36 dpi, while some pigs had high antibody titres (≥ 98%) by 70 dpi.

Key words: African swine fever virus, Biosecurity, Disinfectant, Medium-scale farm, Outbreak management