Kohima: The Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, has issued containment measures following the confirmation of African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks in Rütsie, P. Khel, Kohima Village, and Mezoma Village under Kohima district.
According to an official notification, laboratory test reports received from the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, confirmed the presence of the disease.
In response, the district administration has declared a 1-km radius around the infected premises as the Infected Zone and a 10-km radius as the Surveillance Zone.
The notification imposes an immediate ban on the import, export and movement of live pigs and pork products within, into or out of the Infected and Surveillance Zones. All pork markets and butcher shops within the designated areas have also been ordered to remain closed until further notice.
Pig farmers have been advised to restrict visitors to their farms, regularly disinfect farm premises, and immediately report any unusual illness or deaths among pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.
The notification further directed that pig carcasses be disposed of through safe burial in accordance with prescribed protocols. Dumping carcasses in rivers, streams or open areas has been strictly prohibited.
The public has also been advised to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing or consuming pork from unknown or unverified sources.
The Deputy Commissioner warned that anyone violating the notified directives will be liable for prosecution under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and other applicable provisions of the law.