Genotype II drives outbreaks; biosecurity lapses remain the key risk
A new study has provided critical insights into African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) dynamics in Southern Nigeria. Researchers conducted active surveillance across 40 pig farms and two abattoirs in four states, analysing blood and tick samples for ASFV.
Key findings:
ASFV detected only during outbreaks: All pigs sampled during outbreaks (27/27) tested positive, while none (0/204) from non-outbreak periods showed infection or antibodies.
Genotype II dominance: seven complete genomes sequenced were all genotype II — the same strain driving the global pig pandemic. This suggests genotype II may be displacing genotype I in Nigeria.
No evidence in ticks: tick samples and non-outbreak plasma were negative, pointing away from subclinical circulation or tick reservoirs as drivers.
Farm-level risks:
The study revealed widespread biosecurity gaps fuelling outbreaks. Risks included poor hygiene protocols, free movement of people and animals, inadequate fencing, flood-prone farm sites, and unsafe carcass disposal (such as burial on-site or dumping in waterways).
This study also suggests that the recurrent nature of ASF appears largely shaped by structural and human-inclined risk factors, particularly inadequate infrastructure, suboptimal management practices, and economically motivated behaviors rather than subclinical transmission, chronic carriers, or tick vectors.
Implications:
Surveillance & sequencing are essential for outbreak detection, strain tracking, and guiding vaccine research.
Biosecurity overhaul is urgently needed, with a focus on hygiene, carcass disposal, and farm infrastructure.
Policy support & farmer education will be critical to incentivise good practices, compensate losses, and sustain disease control.
Conclusion:
ASF outbreaks in Southern Nigeria are driven by genotype II and worsened by systemic biosecurity lapses, not hidden infections or tick reservoirs. Strengthened surveillance, biosecurity, and farmer support are key to protecting livelihoods and curbing the spread.
Read more on the Article here : https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/14/9/934