The African Swine Fever (ASF) scare in Nagaland has widened further, with fresh restrictions and preventive measures now imposed in Mon district and Medziphema sub-division following reports of possible outbreaks and fears of transmission.
In Mon, Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak, NCS, informed that reports had been received regarding the outbreak of ASF in certain areas of Nagaland, including adjoining districts, prompting the district administration to enforce strict containment measures with immediate effect.
According to the order issued on May 21, the export, import and transportation of live pigs from Mon district to other districts and outside the State, as well as the import of pigs into the district, have been prohibited until further orders.
The district administration also imposed a total ban on the sale of pork across the district until the ASF situation is “neutralized.”
“No person, trader, transporter, firm, or association shall transport, export, import or facilitate movement of pigs from Mon District and to Mon District without prior clearance and certification from the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services,” the order stated.
The administration further directed all check gates, police personnel, veterinary officials and administrative officers to strictly enforce the order. Citizens were also asked to immediately report pigs showing symptoms such as sudden death, high fever, weakness, skin discoloration or abnormal behaviour to the nearest veterinary authority.
Meanwhile, in Medziphema sub-division, Additional Deputy Commissioner James Swu issued a separate circular following reported cases and rumours relating to a possible ASF outbreak.
Pending laboratory confirmation, the administration prohibited slaughter of pigs for commercial sale or distribution without prior approval from the district administration.
The order stated that any individual, butcher, trader or farmer intending to slaughter pigs for sale must first seek permission from the ADC office. Verification and inspection of pigs would be conducted by Livestock Inspector Kevilelie Keyho before slaughter is permitted.
The administration warned that sale, transportation or distribution of pork without approval and verification would invite legal action.
Village councils, GBs, ward authorities, butchers and meat vendors have been directed to cooperate with authorities in enforcing the restrictions.
The latest measures come after similar ASF-related restrictions and advisories were earlier issued in districts including Dimapur and Mokokchung, raising concerns over the spread of the highly contagious viral disease affecting pig populations in the State.