As a way to educate pig farmers, the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (Dardlea) held a programme to raise awareness on the dangers of African swine fever (ASF) on Sunday July 10 in Wesselton, Ermelo.
According to Dardlea, ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that leads to mortalities in the piggery business.
The department’s spokesperson, Zanele Shabangu, said the fact that the virus results in death is the the reason why they decided to engage and educate pig farmers about it.
“These interactions afford farmers an opportunity to engage in discussions with the people doing the presentation, and ask clarity-seeking questions.”
ALSO READ: Tackling the fire season in the City of Mbombela
Presentations on meat safety, piggery management, animal branding, stock theft and African swine fever were delivered. “The farmers were offered tips on measures to prevent the spread of the disease, which include early detection, implementing strict biosecurity measures, quarantine and strict animal movement control.”
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga health department takes comprehensive services to the people
Symptoms of ASF in pigs farmers need to look out for, include fever, restlessness, lack of appetite, red and/or blue skin, vomiting, bleeding and bloody diarrhoea.
