A serious outbreak of African swine fever is wreaking havoc in pig farms in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region.
The outbreak, per reports, has cost one local farmer about 600 pigs, estimated at a loss of GH¢2.2 million.
The veterinary office for Kwahu West has confirmed the outbreak, emphasising that while it does not pose a threat to humans, it spreads rapidly.
Also, the Municipal Veterinary Director for the area, Dr. Mark Owusu has advised against the selling and movement of pigs within Kwahu West, to enable his team control the spread of the disease.
Dr. Owusu told JoyNews, “We are organising a seminar for the farmers, so we put them through all the do’s and don’ts. But for now, they should all calm down. The situation is under control.
“The virus does not affect human beings. So consumers of pigs are safe. Just that the farms that are affected, we don’t want the pig meat to go outside due to the spread.”
Additionally, the Municipal Agricultural Director of Kwahu West, Francis Dogbatse says his office is collaborating with farmers to contain the outbreak.
Mr. Dogbatse urged all pig farmers within Kwahu West to look out for warning signs. “If you have pigs and you observe some unusual signs, please approach the veterinary unit of the Department of Agriculture.
“We also have extension officers scattered all over. Please let them know, so we contain the virus,” he emphasised.
Consumers are also informed by the Municipal Veterinary Director that meat from affected pigs can be safely consumed if boiled above 60 degrees celsius.
