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Whitaker SH, Mannelli A, Kitron U, Bellini S. An analysis of the social, cultural, and ecological factors that affect the implementation of biosecurity measures on smallholder commercial swine farms in Italy in the context of an emerging African Swine Fever outbreak. Prev Vet Med 2024; 229:106238. [PMID: 38870565 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
African Swine Fever (ASF) is a contagious viral disease that infects wild and domesticated swine. In early 2022, the virus was found in wild boar in the Apennine mountains of mainland Italy.2 Since then, it has spread from wild boar to domesticated swine. To control the spread of ASF, an effective surveillance system and the implementation of strict biosecurity measures on farms are required yet are unevenly implemented across husbandry systems. Smallholder farms in particular are known to have low levels of biosecurity. In the Apennine mountains of Italy, small commercial farms have been found to have low levels of biosecurity despite being located in areas with high densities of wild boar, and, hence, being high-risk sites for potential ASF incursion and subsequent diffusion. To address the question as to why the level of biosecurity is low, interviews and participant observation were conducted with smallholder commercial farmers. The interviews identified the social, cultural, and ecological factors that affect the implementation of biosecurity measures in small commercial swine farms in the Apennines. Farmers expressed knowledge of priority biosecurity measures and an overall willingness to follow rules and regulations; however, the application of the measures in practice was uneven across farms. Economic, political, and ecological factors as well as farmer beliefs about biosecurity emerged as important factors affecting the implementation of biosecurity measures. These include economic constraints, challenges posed by the mountain environment, a shifting regulatory environment, and ideas about animal welfare. Other important factors include cultural factors such as the use of traditional agricultural methods and norms about customer access to animals, time constraints and the perceived hassle of implementing the measures, farmer age, farmer relationships with government officials and veterinarians, and the role of pigs in reducing farm waste. The study confirmed that wild boar are present in high numbers and in close proximity to smallholder commercial farms in the Apennines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Whitaker
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Anthropology, Boise State University, Boise, ID, USA.
| | | | - Uriel Kitron
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Silvia Bellini
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Lombardy and Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Brescia, Italy
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2
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Wang L, Ganges L, Dixon LK, Bu Z, Zhao D, Truong QL, Richt JA, Jin M, Netherton CL, Benarafa C, Summerfield A, Weng C, Peng G, Reis AL, Han J, Penrith ML, Mo Y, Su Z, Vu Hoang D, Pogranichniy RM, Balaban-Oglan DA, Li Y, Wang K, Cai X, Shi J. 2023 International African Swine Fever Workshop: Critical Issues That Need to Be Addressed for ASF Control. Viruses 2023; 16:4. [PMID: 38275939 PMCID: PMC10819980 DOI: 10.3390/v16010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The 2023 International African Swine Fever Workshop (IASFW) took place in Beijing, China, on 18-20 September 2023. It was jointly organized by the U.S.-China Center for Animal Health (USCCAH) at Kansas State University (KSU) and the Chinese Veterinary Drug Association (CVDA) and sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS), Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, and Zoetis Inc. The objective of this workshop was to provide a platform for ASF researchers around the world to unite and share their knowledge and expertise on ASF control and prevention. A total of 24 outstanding ASF research scientists and experts from 10 countries attended this meeting. The workshop included presentations on current ASF research, opportunities for scientific collaboration, and discussions of lessons and experiences learned from China/Asia, Africa, and Europe. This article summarizes the meeting highlights and presents some critical issues that need to be addressed for ASF control and prevention in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Wang
- Center on Vaccine Evaluation and Alternatives for Antimicrobials, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (L.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Llilianne Ganges
- WOAH Reference Laboratory for Classical Swine Fever, IRTA-CReSA, 08193 Barcelona, Spain;
- IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Linda K. Dixon
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Woking GU24 0NF, UK; (L.K.D.); (C.L.N.); (A.L.R.)
| | - Zhigao Bu
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, National African Swine Fever Para-Reference Laboratory, National High Containment Facilities for Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, China; (Z.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Dongming Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, National African Swine Fever Para-Reference Laboratory, National High Containment Facilities for Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, China; (Z.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Quang Lam Truong
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12406, Vietnam;
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA;
| | - Meilin Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.J.); (G.P.)
| | | | - Charaf Benarafa
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Federal Department of Home Affairs, 3147 Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; (C.B.); (A.S.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Postfach, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Postfach, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Artur Summerfield
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Federal Department of Home Affairs, 3147 Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; (C.B.); (A.S.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Postfach, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Postfach, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Changjiang Weng
- National African Swine Fever Para-Reference Laboratory, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, China;
| | - Guiqing Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.J.); (G.P.)
| | - Ana L. Reis
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Woking GU24 0NF, UK; (L.K.D.); (C.L.N.); (A.L.R.)
| | - Jun Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100107, China;
| | - Mary-Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Hatfield 0028, South Africa;
| | - Yupeng Mo
- Dekang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Group, Chengdu 610225, China;
| | | | - Dang Vu Hoang
- National Institute of Veterinary Research, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Roman M. Pogranichniy
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA;
| | - David-Adrian Balaban-Oglan
- Romanian Association of Swine Veterinarians, 013821 Bucharest, Romania;
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agronomic Science and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Yuzhen Li
- Center on Vaccine Evaluation and Alternatives for Antimicrobials, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (L.W.); (Y.L.)
| | - Kewen Wang
- Swine Unit, Zoetis China, Beijing 102208, China;
| | - Xuepeng Cai
- Chinese Veterinary Drug Association, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jishu Shi
- Center on Vaccine Evaluation and Alternatives for Antimicrobials, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (L.W.); (Y.L.)
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3
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Arvidsson A, Fischer K, Chenais E, Kiguli J, Sternberg-Lewerin S, Ståhl K. Limitations and opportunities of smallholders' practical knowledge when dealing with pig health issues in northern Uganda. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287041. [PMID: 37294750 PMCID: PMC10256192 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pig production has a short history in Uganda. The majority of pigs are kept by smallholder farmers in rural areas where access to veterinary services is limited, and pig keeping has been suggested as a potential pathway out of poverty for smallholders. Previous research has identified the disease of African swine fever (ASF) as a major threat, causing high mortalities in pigs. With no available cure or vaccine, the only option is to implement biosecurity measures, i.e. strategies that prevent the spread of ASF. This paper draws on data from four months of ethnographic fieldwork in rural northern Uganda. Combining methods of participant observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and a survey, the aim was to improve understanding of smallholders' perceptions and responses to pig health issues such as ASF. Applying the concept of practical knowledge, this paper analyses the potential and limitations of smallholders' practice-based knowledge as a means of dealing with pig health issues. The results show that while pigs were appreciated locally for providing an income, many informants found it difficult to deal with pig diseases effectively. Consequently, informants commonly expressed a need for other kinds of knowledge in their pig production, indicating that veterinary advice can play an important role in reducing the negative impact of pig health issues. For animal health provision to have relevance in this context, however, veterinary practitioners must pay close attention to smallholders' priorities and ways of knowing in their livestock keeping. Results further show that pig health issues made some informants abandon pig production altogether. To enhance the potential of pig production as a poverty mitigation strategy in Uganda, research and policy need to focus on ways of bettering general conditions for smallholder pig keeping, including improving the quality of and access to veterinary services in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Arvidsson
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erika Chenais
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Juliet Kiguli
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susanna Sternberg-Lewerin
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karl Ståhl
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
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MacPhillamy IBJ, Nunn MJ, Barnes TS, Bush R, Toribio JALML. Striving for long term sustainability - is it time we changed our approach to animal health in low- and middle-income countries? Acta Trop 2023:106946. [PMID: 37236333 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Animal health and agricultural productivity in low- and middle-income countries have been the focus of research for development (R4D) projects for decades, with varying levels of success when considering the long-term sustainability of interventions. Many of these projects have been funded, designed and implemented by researchers from high income countries, and therefore risk neglecting the cultural nuances and complex country histories that can influence their success. This opinion piece suggests three broad recommendations: (1) implementing culturally congruent practices to improve disease control and prevention practices at the village level; (2) promoting public-private partnerships to improve control of transboundary animal diseases; and (3) improving national animal health and veterinary services and their governance to improve disease surveillance, control and prevention. Development researchers need to consider implementing these approaches in future projects to improve the suitability and sustainability of interventions and acknowledging the current technical capacity of host countries. Foreign donor organisations need to ensure their funding guidelines and reporting requirements allow for these recommendations to be adequately implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- I B J MacPhillamy
- The University of Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Camden, NSW, Australia.
| | - M J Nunn
- 19 Macrossan Avenue, Bannockburn, Victoria 3331, Australia
| | - T S Barnes
- The University of Queensland, School of Veterinary Science, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - R Bush
- The University of Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Camden, NSW, Australia
| | - J-A L M L Toribio
- The University of Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Camden, NSW, Australia
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5
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Plut J, Hajdinjak M, Prodanov-Radulović J, Grubač S, Djurdjević B, Štukelj M. Risk Factor Impact on African Swine Fever Transmission in Different Extensive Pig Production Settings in Serbia. Viruses 2023; 15:1232. [PMID: 37376532 DOI: 10.3390/v15061232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The first case of ASF in a domestic pig population in Serbia was confirmed in 2019 in a backyard population. Today, outbreaks in wild boar and, more importantly, in domestic pigs are still occurring, although the government measures for ASF prevention are in place. The aim of this study was to determine critical risk factors and identify the possible reasons for ASF introduction into different extensive pig farms. The study was conducted on 26 extensive pig farms with confirmed ASF outbreaks, with data collected from beginning of 2020 to the end of 2022. Collected epidemiological data were divided into 21 main categories. After identifying specific values of variables as critical for ASF transmission, we identified nine important ASF transmission indicators as those variables for which at least 2/3 of the observed farms reported values critical for ASF transmission. Among them were type of holding, distance to hunting ground, farm/yard fencing, and home slaughtering; however, the hunting activity of pig holders, swill feeding, and feeding with mowed green mass were not included. We represented the data in the form of contingency tables to study associations between pairs of variables using Fisher's exact test. All pairs of variables in the group including type of holding, farm/yard fencing, domestic pig-wild boar contact, and hunting activity were significantly related; hunting activity of pig holders, holding pigs in backyards, unfenced yards, and domestic pig-wild boar contact were observed on the same farms. Free-range pig farming led to observed domestic pig-wild boar contact on all farms. The identified critical risk factors need to be strictly addressed to prevent the further spread of ASF to extensive farms and backyards in Serbia and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Plut
- Clinic for Ruminants and Pigs, Clinic for Reproduction and Large Animals, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Melita Hajdinjak
- Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Siniša Grubač
- Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | | | - Marina Štukelj
- Clinic for Ruminants and Pigs, Clinic for Reproduction and Large Animals, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Chenais E, Fischer K, Aliro T, Ståhl K, Lewerin SS. Co-created community contracts support biosecurity changes in a region where African swine fever is endemic – Part II: Implementation of biosecurity measures. Prev Vet Med 2023; 214:105902. [PMID: 36966659 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Smallholder subsistence pig production is common in Uganda and African swine fever (ASF) is endemic in the country, with its spread driven by human activities along the smallholder value chain. Previous research in the study area has revealed that many stakeholders are aware of how ASF is spread, its prevention and control, and have a generally positive attitude towards biosecurity. Despite this, even basic biosecurity is largely lacking. Costs, as well as a lack of adaptation to the local context, culture and traditions have been identified as factors hindering biosecurity implementation. Community engagement and local ownership of disease problems are increasingly recognised as important for improving disease prevention and control. The objective of this study was to investigate the capacity of participatory action at community level with broad inclusion of stakeholders to improve biosecurity in the smallholder pig value chain. Specific attention was paid to participants' perceptions and experiences of implementing the biosecurity measures included in their co-created community contracts. The study was conducted in Northern Uganda in villages purposively selected on the basis of previous occurrences of ASF. In each village, farmers and traders were also purposively selected. At a first meeting, basic information about ASF was shared and participants presented with a list of biosecurity measures adapted for farmers and traders respectively. Participants discussed each measure in farmer and trader subgroups, decided on the measures to implement for one year, and signed a community contract to this effect. The following year, interviews were again undertaken and implementation support given. Interview data were coded and thematically analysed. Each subgroup chose a minimum of three and a maximum of nine measures, with wide variations between villages in their selection of measures. At the follow-ups, none of the subgroups had fully implemented what had been agreed in their contract, but all had changed some of their biosecurity routines. Some frequently recommended biosecurity measures, such as not borrowing breeding boars, were not considered feasible. Relatively simple and cheap biosecurity measures were rejected for reasons of cost, highlighting the participants' general level of poverty and the relevance of poverty as a specific factor governing disease control results. The participatory methodology allowing for discussions, co-creation and the option to refuse measures seemed to facilitate the implementation of measures that had initially been thought to be controversial. The broad community approach was deemed to be positive for strengthening community identity, cooperation and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tonny Aliro
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Karl Ståhl
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Susanna Sternberg Lewerin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Delabouglise A, Fournié G, Peyre M, Antoine-Moussiaux N, Boni MF. Elasticity and substitutability of food demand and emerging disease risk on livestock farms. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:221304. [PMID: 36938540 PMCID: PMC10014248 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.221304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Disease emergence in livestock is a product of environment, epidemiology and economic forces. The environmental factors contributing to novel pathogen emergence in humans have been studied extensively, but the two-way relationship between farm microeconomics and outbreak risk has received comparably little attention. We introduce a game-theoretic model where farmers produce and sell two goods, one of which (e.g. pigs, poultry) is susceptible to infection by a pathogen. We model market and epidemiological effects at both the individual farm level and the community level. We find that in the case of low demand elasticity for livestock meat, the presence of an animal pathogen causing production losses can lead to a bistable system where two outcomes are possible: (i) successful disease control or (ii) maintained disease circulation, where farmers slaughter their animals at a low rate, face substantial production losses, but maintain large herds because of the appeal of high meat prices. Our observations point to the potentially critical effect of price elasticity of demand for livestock products on the success or failure of livestock disease control policies. We show the potential epidemiological benefits of (i) policies aimed at stabilizing livestock product prices, (ii) subsidies for alternative agricultural activities during epidemics, and (iii) diversifying agricultural production and sources of proteins available to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Delabouglise
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier 34398, France
- UMR ASTRE, University of Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Guillaume Fournié
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL97TA, UK
- Universitá de Lyon, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR EPIA, Marcy l'Etoile, France
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR EPIA, Saint Genes Champanelle, France
| | - Marisa Peyre
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier 34398, France
- UMR ASTRE, University of Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Antoine-Moussiaux
- FARAH-Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals and Health, University of Liège, Avenue de Cureghem 7A-7D, Liège 4000, Belgium
| | - Maciej F. Boni
- Department of Biology, Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Erika C, Susanna SL, Tonny A, Karl S, Klara F. Co-created community contracts support biosecurity changes in a region where African swine fever is endemic - Part I: The methodology. Prev Vet Med 2023; 212:105840. [PMID: 36640661 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In Northern Uganda more people live in poverty than elsewhere in the country. Small-scale pig-keeping is common and African swine fever (ASF) is endemic, spreading along the smallholder value chain. Biosecurity measures remain the only way to prevent and control the spread of ASF in this context. Previous research in the study area has shown that many stakeholders are aware of ASF, how it is spread and methods for prevention and control, but biosecurity implementation remains limited. Participatory approaches have been suggested in order to increase community engagement in relation to animal disease control, ensuring that disease prevention or control actions are guided by local people's priorities and the promotion of local ownership of disease control. The objective of this study was to investigate the capacity of participatory action at community level with a broad inclusion of stakeholders to initiate change and greater stakeholder ownership to improve biosecurity in the smallholder pig value chain. Specific attention was paid to the feasibility of co-created community contracts for this purpose. The study was carried out in Northern Uganda in six purposively selected villages and included both farmers and traders. Centred on co-created community contracts on biosecurity, the study comprised repeated group discussions, semi-structured and structured group and individual interviews, as well as field observations. At the first meeting, participants were presented with suggested biosecurity measures adapted for farmers and traders respectively. Participants discussed each measure, agreed which ones to implement for one year, and co-created a community contract to this effect. During the study period, repeated interviews were undertaken and implementation support was provided. Interview data was coded and thematically analysed. Great diversity was observed between communities with regard to which and how many measures were selected, illustrating heterogeneity in the possibilities of biosecurity implementation and the complexity of livelihood challenges. The methodology appeared to be effective at instigating change, with all the communities changing some of their biosecurity behaviour during the study period. The intensified communication and cooperation around pigs in the communities reinforced the sense of group identity and the capacity-building offered at the first meeting supported implementation and appeared to be more important than the physical contract. Participants reported feeling empowered and described how they shared their knowledge, educated their peers and acted as catalysts for wider biosecurity change in their communities. These are promising results and indicate a positive attitude to both the agreed measures and the methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenais Erika
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sternberg Lewerin Susanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aliro Tonny
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Ståhl Karl
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fischer Klara
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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9
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Innovative Research Offers New Hope for Managing African Swine Fever Better in Resource-Limited Smallholder Farming Settings: A Timely Update. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020355. [PMID: 36839627 PMCID: PMC9963711 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) in domestic pigs has, since its discovery in Africa more than a century ago, been associated with subsistence pig keeping with low levels of biosecurity. Likewise, smallholder and backyard pig farming in resource-limited settings have been notably affected during the ongoing epidemic in Eastern Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Caribbean regions. Many challenges to managing ASF in such settings have been identified in the ongoing as well as previous epidemics. Consistent implementation of biosecurity at all nodes in the value chain remains most important for controlling and preventing ASF. Recent research from Asia, Africa, and Europe has provided science-based information that can be of value in overcoming some of the hurdles faced for implementing biosecurity in resource-limited contexts. In this narrative review we examine a selection of these studies elucidating innovative solutions such as shorter boiling times for inactivating ASF virus in swill, participatory planning of interventions for risk mitigation for ASF, better understanding of smallholder pig-keeper perceptions and constraints, modified culling, and safe alternatives for disposal of carcasses of pigs that have died of ASF. The aim of the review is to increase acceptance and implementation of science-based approaches that increase the feasibility of managing, and the possibility to prevent, ASF in resource-limited settings. This could contribute to protecting hundreds of thousands of livelihoods that depend upon pigs and enable small-scale pig production to reach its full potential for poverty alleviation and food security.
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Schambow R, Reyes R, Morales J, Diaz A, Perez AM. A qualitative assessment of alternative eradication strategies for African swine fever in the Dominican Republic. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1054271. [PMID: 36467653 PMCID: PMC9714749 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1054271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its recent detection in July 2021, the reintroduction of African swine fever (ASF) in the Dominican Republic (DR) has generated much discourse on various measures for its effective control. Strategies range from complete depopulation of the swine population, as was done in 1978, to a system of passive surveillance with endemicity, with many in-between. Currently, ASF-decision makers need a peer evaluation and comparison and contrast of these potential strategies that incorporates both private and public perspectives. To achieve this, we used strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis to evaluate three different theoretical ASF control scenarios with the aim of contributing evaluations of alternatives strategies to mitigate the epidemic's impact. These included total depopulation of all pigs in the DR, partial depopulation, and continuation of current control measures. Relevant experts from the DR private swine industry were identified through "snowball sampling" techniques. Five experts completed the SWOT questionnaire and additional questions considering aspects of financial cost, social impact, feasibility, animal welfare, and regional policy. The summarized responses were presented to the full group of experts initially nominated for final review and later to representatives of the DR government. The SWOT analysis highlighted that although there are certain benefits associated with each of the proposed strategies, there are also important drawbacks and disadvantages for all. This analysis is a tool for facilitating cooperating between the private-public industries, and ultimately it supports the development of strategies that will reduce ASF burden in the DR in a way suitable for all relevant stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Schambow
- Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Raysa Reyes
- Instituto del Estudio de las Enfermedades Zoonóticas, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Jose Morales
- Instituto del Estudio de las Enfermedades Zoonóticas, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Alan Diaz
- Instituto del Estudio de las Enfermedades Zoonóticas, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Andres M. Perez
- Center for Animal Health and Food Safety, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
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11
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Penrith ML, Van Heerden J, Heath L, Abworo EO, Bastos ADS. Review of the Pig-Adapted African Swine Fever Viruses in and Outside Africa. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101190. [PMID: 36297247 PMCID: PMC9609104 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The region in eastern, central and southern Africa (ECSA) where African swine fever (ASF) originated in a sylvatic cycle is home to all the p72 genotypes of ASF virus identified so far. While 20 of the 24 genotypes have been isolated from outbreaks in domestic pigs in the region, only five of the genotypes (I, II, VIII, IX, X) have an extended field presence associated with domestic pigs. Of the genotypes that appear to be strongly adapted to domestic pigs, two have spread beyond the African continent and have been the focus of efforts to develop vaccines against ASF. Most of the experimental ASF vaccines described do not protect against a wider spectrum of viruses and may be less useful in the event of incursions of different strains or where multiple genotypes co-exist. The other three pig-adapted strains that are currently restricted to the ECSA region might spread, and priority should be given to understanding not only the genetic and antigenic characteristics of these viruses but also their history. We review historic and current knowledge of the distribution of these five virus genotypes, and note that as was the case for genotype II, some pig-associated viruses have the propensity for geographical range expansion. These features are valuable for prioritizing vaccine-development efforts to ensure a swift response to virus escape. However, whilst ASF vaccines are critical for high-production systems, global food security relies on parallel efforts to improve biosecurity and pig production in Africa and on continued ASFV surveillance and characterisation in the ECSA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary-Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
- Correspondence: or
| | - Juanita Van Heerden
- Transboundary Animal Diseases, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Livio Heath
- Transboundary Animal Diseases, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Edward Okoth Abworo
- Biosciences, Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Armanda D. S. Bastos
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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12
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Nga BTT, Padungtod P, Depner K, Chuong VD, Duy DT, Anh ND, Dietze K. Implications of partial culling on African swine fever control effectiveness in Vietnam. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:957918. [PMID: 36118335 PMCID: PMC9479321 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.957918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The introduction of the African swine fever (ASF) into previously unaffected countries often overwhelms veterinary authorities with the resource demanding control efforts that need to be undertaken. The approach of implementing total stamping out of affected herds is taken as “default” control measure in many countries, regardless of the transboundary animal disease addressed, leading to a variety of challenges when implemented. Apart from the organizational challenges and high demand for human and financial resources, the total stamping out approach puts a high burden on the livelihoods of the affected farmers. After the spread of ASF throughout the country in 2019, Vietnam changed the culling approach enabling partial culling of only affected animals in the herd, in order to save resources, and reduce the environmental impact because of the carcass disposal and allow farmers to protect valuable assets. Until now, field data comparing these disease control options in their performance during implementation has not been evaluated scientifically. Analyzing the effect of the change in a control policy, the present study concludes that partial culling can on average save over 50% of total stock with an 8-day prolongation of the implementation of control measures. With 58% of farms undergoing partial culling scoring high on a time-livelihoods matrix, while total stamping out fails to score on livelihoods, much-needed clarity on the livelihood-protecting effects of alternative culling strategies is given. In the future, this will allow veterinary authorities to adjust control measures according to differing priorities, targeting peculiarities of ASF and acknowledging resource constraints faced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bui Thi To Nga
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Pawin Padungtod
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Country Office for Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Klaus Depner
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Vo Dinh Chuong
- Department of Animal Health, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Do Tien Duy
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Duc Anh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Klaas Dietze
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
- *Correspondence: Klaas Dietze
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13
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Chenais E, Depner K, Ebata A, Penrith M, Pfeiffer DU, Price C, Ståhl K, Fischer K. Exploring the hurdles that remain for control of African swine fever in smallholder farming settings. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e3370-e3378. [PMID: 35737577 PMCID: PMC9796485 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
To honour the 100 years anniversary of the first publication about African swine fever (ASF) a webinar with a particular focus on disease control in the smallholder sector was organized. This article is based on the webinar, summarizing the early history of ASF research, reflecting on the current global disease situation and bringing forward some suggestions that could contribute towards achieving control of ASF. The first description of ASF by R. Eustace Montgomery in 1921 laid the foundations for what we know about the disease today. Subsequent research confirmed its association with warthogs and soft ticks of the Ornithodoros moubata complex. During the latter half of the 21st century, exponential growth of pig production in Africa has led to a change in the ASF-epidemiology pattern. It is now dominated by a cycle involving domestic pigs and pork with virus spread driven by people. In 2007, a global ASF epidemic started, reaching large parts of Europe, Asia and the Americas. In Europe, this epidemic has primarily affected wild boar. In Asia, wild boar, smallholders and industrialized pig farms have been affected with impact on local, national and international pig value chains. Globally and historically, domestic pigs in smallholder settings are most frequently affected and the main driver of ASF virus transmission. Awaiting a safe and efficacious vaccine, we need to continue focus on other measures, such as biosecurity, for controlling the disease. However, smallholders face specific challenges linked to poverty and other structural factors in implementing biosecurity measures that can prevent spread. Improving biosecurity in the smallholder sector thus remains an important tool for preventing and controlling ASF. In this regard, interdisciplinary research can help to find new ways to promote safe practices, facilitate understanding and embrace smallholders' perspectives, engage stakeholders and adjust prevention and control policies to improve implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and EpidemiologyNational Veterinary InstituteUppsalaSweden
| | - Klaus Depner
- Institute for International Animal Health / One HealthFriedrich‐Loeffler‐InstitutGreifswald‐Insel RiemsGermany
| | - Ayako Ebata
- Institute of Development StudiesUniversity of SussexBrightonUK
| | - Mary‐Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical DiseasesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - Dirk U. Pfeiffer
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy AdviceCity University of Hong KongHong KongPR China,Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeLondonUK
| | - Cortney Price
- Animal Production and Health DivisionFood and Agriculture Organization of the United NationsRomeItaly
| | - Karl Ståhl
- Department of Disease Control and EpidemiologyNational Veterinary InstituteUppsalaSweden
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural DevelopmentSwedish University of Agricultural SciencesUppsalaSweden
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14
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Penrith ML, Depner K, Jori F, Dione M, Alders R, Chenais E. Editorial: African Swine Fever in Smallholder and Traditional Pig Farming Systems: Research, Challenges and Solutions. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:878928. [PMID: 35558893 PMCID: PMC9087346 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.878928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mary-Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Mary-Louise Penrith
| | - Klaus Depner
- Institut für Internationale Tiergesundheit/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ferran Jori
- UMR ASTRE (Animals, Health, Territories, Risk and Ecosystems), CIRAD-INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Michel Dione
- Animal and Human Health Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Robyn Alders
- Development Policy Centre, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Kyeema Foundation, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Arvidsson A, Fischer K, Hansen K, Sternberg-Lewerin S, Chenais E. Diverging Discourses: Animal Health Challenges and Veterinary Care in Northern Uganda. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:773903. [PMID: 35359673 PMCID: PMC8960384 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.773903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
People in northern Uganda are currently rebuilding their lives after a lengthy period of conflict. To facilitate this, the Ugandan government and donors have promoted investment in pigs as an important strategy for generating income quickly and ensuring livelihood security. In this context, animal health issues are an acknowledged challenge, creating uncertainty for animal owners who risk losing both their animals and income. This paper draws on policy documents guiding the veterinary sector, interviews with faculty staff at Makerere University and with veterinarians and paraprofessionals in northern Uganda, and ethnographic fieldwork in smallholder communities. The aims of this study were to contribute to an understanding of the structure of veterinary support and its dominant development narratives in policy and veterinary education and of the way in which dominant discourses and practices affect smallholders' ability to treat sick animals. Particular attention was paid to the role of paraprofessionals, here referring to actors with varied levels of training who provide animal health services mainly in rural areas. The results suggest that veterinary researchers, field veterinarians and government officials in agricultural policy share a common discourse in which making smallholders more business-minded and commercializing smallholder production are important elements in reducing rural poverty in Uganda. This way of framing smallholder livestock production overlooks other important challenges faced by smallholders in their livestock production, as well as alternative views of agricultural development. The public veterinary sector is massively under-resourced; thus while inadequately trained paraprofessionals and insufficient veterinary support currently present a risks to animal health, paraprofessionals fulfill an important role for smallholders unable to access the public veterinary sector. The dominant discourse framing paraprofessionals as “quacks” tends to downplay how important they are to smallholders by mainly highlighting the negative outcomes for animal healthcare resulting from their lack of formalized training. The conclusions of this study are that both animal health and smallholders' livelihoods would benefit from closer collaboration between veterinarians and paraprofessionals and from a better understanding of smallholders' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Arvidsson
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Anna Arvidsson
| | - Klara Fischer
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kjell Hansen
- Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Susanna Sternberg-Lewerin
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erika Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
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16
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Penrith ML, Kivaria FM. One hundred years of African swine fever in Africa: where have we been, where are we now, where are we going? Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1179-e1200. [PMID: 35104041 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
One hundred years have passed since the first paper on African swine fever (ASF) was published by Montgomery in 1921. With no vaccine, ineffectiveness of prevention and control measures, and lack of common interest in eradicating the disease, ASF has proven to be one of the most devastating diseases because of its significant sanitary and socioeconomic consequences. The rapid spread of the disease on the European and Asian continents and its recent appearance in the Caribbean puts all countries at great risk because of global trade. The incidence of ASF has also increased on the African continent over the last few decades, extending its distribution far beyond the area in which the ancient sylvatic cycle is present with its complex epidemiological transmission pathways involving virus reservoirs in ticks and wild African Suidae. Both in that area and elsewhere, efficient transmission by infected domestic pigs and virus resistance in infected animal products and fomites mean that human driven factors along the pig value chain are the dominant impediments for its prevention, control, and eradication. Control efforts in Africa are furthermore hampered by the lack of information about the size and location of the fast-growing pig population, particularly in the dynamic smallholder sector that constitutes up to 90% of pig production in the region. A vaccine that will be both affordable and effective against multiple genotypes of the virus is not a short-term reality. Therefore, a strategy for management of ASF in sub-Saharan Africa is needed to provide a roadmap for the way forward for the continent. This review explores the progression of ASF and our knowledge of it through research over a century in Africa, our current understanding of ASF, and what must be done going forwards to improve the African situation and contribute to global prevention and control. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Louise Penrith
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Fredrick Mathias Kivaria
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, Block P, Level 3, United Nations Complex, UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi, PO Box: 30470, GPO, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya
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17
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Aliro T, Chenais E, Odongo W, Okello DM, Masembe C, Ståhl K. Prevention and Control of African Swine Fever in the Smallholder Pig Value Chain in Northern Uganda: Thematic Analysis of Stakeholders' Perceptions. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:707819. [PMID: 35097036 PMCID: PMC8793068 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.707819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) is endemic in Uganda and considered a major constraint to pig production. In the absence of a vaccine, biosecurity is key for ASF prevention and control. To improve prevention and control on farm and community level there is need for more knowledge on current application of biosecurity practises, and better understanding of how pig value chain actors perceive prevention and control. To achieve this, a qualitative interview study involving focus group discussions (FGD) was conducted with actors from the smallholder pig value chain in northern Uganda. Six villages were purposively selected based on previous outbreaks of ASF, preliminary perceived willingness to control ASF, and the representation of several different value chain actors in the village. Results indicated that biosecurity practises such as basic hygiene routines including safe carcass handling, minimising direct and indirect contacts between pigs or between pigs and people, trade restrictions and sharing of disease information were implemented in some of the villages. Thematic analysis based on grounded theory revealed six categories of data relating to ASF prevention and control. Together these categories form a logical framework including both enablers and hindrances for ASF prevention and control. In summary participants mostly had positive perceptions of ASF biosecurity, describing measures as effective. Participants further possessed knowledge of ASF and its transmission, some of which was in line with known scientific knowledge and some not. Nevertheless, participants were hindered from preventing and controlling ASF due to biosecurity costs and a need to prioritise family livelihood over disease transmission risks, incompatibility of current biosecurity practises with local culture, traditions and social contexts and finally lack of access to veterinarians or, occasionally, low-quality veterinary services. The constraints could be addressed by applying participatory processes in designing biosecurity measures to ensure better adaptation to local cultural and social contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Aliro
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - E. Chenais
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
- *Correspondence: E. Chenais
| | - W. Odongo
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - D. M. Okello
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - C. Masembe
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Science, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - K. Ståhl
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden
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18
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Tu CF, Chuang CK, Yang TS. The application of new breeding technology based on gene editing in pig industry. Anim Biosci 2022; 35:791-803. [PMID: 34991204 PMCID: PMC9066036 DOI: 10.5713/ab.21.0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome/gene-editing (GE) techniques, characterized by a low technological barrier, high efficiency, and broad application among organisms, are now being employed not only in medical science but also in agriculture/veterinary science. Different engineered CRISPR/Cas9s have been identified to expand the application of this technology. In pig production, GE is a precise new breeding technology (NBT), and promising outcomes in improving economic traits, such as growth, lean or healthy meat production, animal welfare, and disease resistance, have already been documented and reviewed. These promising achievements in porcine gene editing, including the Myostatin gene knockout (KO) in indigenous breeds to improve lean meat production, the uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gene knock-in to enhance piglet thermogenesis and survival under cold stress, the generation of GGTA1 and CMP-N-glycolylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) gene double KO (dKO) pigs to produce healthy red meat, and the KO or deletion of exon 7 of the CD163 gene to confer resistance to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection, are described in the present article. Other related approaches for such purposes are also discussed. The current trend of global regulations or legislation for GE organisms is that they are exempted from classification as genetically modified organisms (GMOs) if no exogenes are integrated into the genome, according to product-based and not process-based methods. Moreover, an updated case study in the EU showed that current GMO legislation is not fit for purpose in term of NBTs, which contribute to the objectives of the EU’s Green Deal and biodiversity strategies and even meet the United Nations’ sustainable development goals for a more resilient and sustainable agri-food system. The GE pigs generated via NBT will be exempted from classification as GMOs, and their global valorization and commercialization can be foreseen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Fu Tu
- Division of Animal Technology, Animal Technology Laboratories, Agricultural Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu City 30093, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Kai Chuang
- Division of Animal Technology, Animal Technology Laboratories, Agricultural Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu City 30093, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Shuh Yang
- Division of Animal Technology, Animal Technology Laboratories, Agricultural Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu City 30093, Taiwan.,Department of Biotechnology and Animal Science, National Ilan University, Yilan City, 26047 Taiwan
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19
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Payne A, Ogweng P, Ståhl K, Masembe C, Jori F. Spatial-Temporal Movements of Free Ranging Pigs at the Wildlife-Livestock Interface of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda: Potential of Disease Control at a Local Scale. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:689377. [PMID: 34631845 PMCID: PMC8496937 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.689377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In many Ugandan rural communities, pigs are generally kept under traditional smallholder systems without basic biosecurity measures in place. In some instances, these systems are at the livestock-wildlife interface, as it is the case in Nwoya district, which is bordered by Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP). This pig system has potential for the maintenance and transmission of pathogens like African swine fever (ASF) between different herds, and also with wild pigs (warthogs and bushpigs). In this paper, we describe the spatial and temporal pattern of the movements of free ranging domestic pigs in a rural setting in Northern Uganda where ASF is endemic. We also determine their use of habitat to highlight the potential interaction hotspots between domestic pigs and between domestic and wild pig populations. We fitted 10 free-ranging domestic pigs owned by different homesteads with GPS harnesses during rainy and dry seasons. The pig home range, daily distance, activity pattern and habitat use were calculated. Our results show that the maximum area covered (MCP 100%) by the pigs varied between 35,965 and 475,077 m2. The core area varied from 1,317 to 50,769 m2. The pigs' home ranges were significantly bigger during the dry season than during the rainy season (Wilcoxon test, W = 22, p = 0.04). The mean full day (24 h) distance was longer in the dry season than in the rainy season (Student test, t = 2.7, p = 0.03). The pigs were mostly located within their own homestead, but they also used other homesteads, grass and crop fields. This study highlights that free-ranging domestic pigs may cover a wide area, especially during the dry season. Interestingly, the home range of pigs from different herds may overlap with areas used by wild pigs which share crops and other resources in this area. This study provides insights into a better understanding of the potential for spread of diseases such as ASF at small-scale and can be used to raise awareness of such risks and to better target implementation of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Payne
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter Ogweng
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Karl Ståhl
- National Veterinary Institute, SVA, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Charles Masembe
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ferran Jori
- CIRAD, UMR Animal, Santé, Territoires, Risque et Ecosystèmes (ASTRE), Montpellier, France
- UMR ASTRE, University of Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Montpellier, France
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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20
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MacPhillamy I, Olmo L, Young J, Nampanya S, Suon S, Khounsy S, Windsor P, Toribio JA, Bush R. Changes in farmer animal health and biosecurity knowledge, attitudes and practices: Insights from Cambodia and Laos. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:e517-e531. [PMID: 34558209 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Livestock agriculture in Cambodia and Laos is severely affected by endemic and exotic transboundary animal diseases, impacting household livelihoods and food and nutritional security. Collaborative animal health and biosecurity projects were conducted in each country between 2015 and 2019 aimed at increasing smallholder livestock production through mainly knowledge-based interventions in large ruminant disease prevention, nutrition, reproduction and marketing access. This study's objectives were to identify baseline animal health and biosecurity knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of farmers, and temporal changes in key attitudes and practices associated with improved knowledge. Data for each country were analysed separately, and a formal between-country comparison was avoided due to major implementation and management differences. Binomial logistic regression without random terms compared the overall knowledge scores between 2015 and 2018 in each country, and binomial logistic regression with random terms was used to investigate possible associations between animal health and biosecurity knowledge scores and attitudes and practices. In Cambodia, the average animal health and biosecurity knowledge score increased from 4.8 (±2.2)/17 in 2015 to 13.0 (±2.8)/17 in 2018 (p < .0001). In Laos, the average scores improved from 7.2 (±2.5)/12 in 2015 to 7.9 (±2.9)/12 in 2018 (p = .0003). Clinical signs of foot-and-mouth disease were accurately reported by 100% of Cambodian and 88% of Lao project farmers, and overall, attitudes and practices improved in both countries over the study period. The belief that vaccination can improve livestock value was associated with increasing knowledge in both countries (Cambodia: OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.24-1.68, p < .0001; Laos: OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.16-1.75, p = .0006) as was the use of the services of village para-veterinarians if they had better training (Cambodia: OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.20-2.58, p = .004; Laos: OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.19-3.41, p = .009). However, the source of livestock information (District veterinary officials) was the only practice associated with knowledge in both Cambodia and Laos. The influence of resource scarcity on farmer decision making and knowledge measures was considered of particular relevance to the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel MacPhillamy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Luisa Olmo
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Young
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sonevilay Nampanya
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Thailand
| | - Sothoeun Suon
- General Directorate of Animal Health and Production, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Syseng Khounsy
- Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Vientiane, Lao PDR, Thailand
| | - Peter Windsor
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jenny-Ann Toribio
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Russell Bush
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Bergmann H, Schulz K, Conraths FJ, Sauter-Louis C. A Review of Environmental Risk Factors for African Swine Fever in European Wild Boar. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092692. [PMID: 34573659 PMCID: PMC8465043 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A detailed understanding of environmental risk factors for African swine fever (ASF) in wild boar will be not only essential for risk assessments but also for timely and spatially informed allocation of resources in order to manage wild boar-targeted ASF control measures efficiently. Here, we review currently known environmental risk factors that can influence the occurrence of ASF virus infection in wild boar when compared to disease occurrence in wild boar of a non-exposed reference scenario. Accordingly, the exposure of wild boar to environmental risk factors related to (1) climate, (2) land cover, (3) human activity, (4) wild boar and (5) ASF were evaluated. As key environmental risk factors in this review, increased ASF occurrence in wild boar was associated with seasonal patterns, forest coverage, presence of water, human presence, farming activities, wild boar density and ASF nearness. The review highlights inconsistencies in some of these risk factor associations with disease detection in space and time and may provide valuable insights for the investigation of ASF transmission dynamics. The examined risk information was applied to consider potential improvements of the ASF control strategy in wild boar regarding disease surveillance, hunting, wild boar carcass searches and ASF barrier implementation.
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Rolesu S, Mandas D, Loi F, Oggiano A, Dei Giudici S, Franzoni G, Guberti V, Cappai S. African Swine Fever in Smallholder Sardinian Farms: Last 10 Years of Network Transmission Reconstruction and Analysis. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:692448. [PMID: 34395576 PMCID: PMC8361751 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.692448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease of suids that frequently leads to death. There are neither licensed vaccines nor treatments available, and even though humans are not susceptible to the disease, the serious socio-economic consequences associated with ASF have made it one of the most serious animal diseases of the last century. In this context, prevention and early detection play a key role in controlling the disease and avoiding losses in the pig value chain. Target biosecurity measures are a strong strategy against ASF virus (ASFV) incursions in farms nowadays, but to be efficient, these measures must be well-defined and easy to implement, both in commercial holdings and in the backyard sector. Furthermore, the backyard sector is of great importance in low-income settings, mainly for social and cultural practices that are highly specific to certain areas and communities. These contexts need to be addressed when authorities decide upon the provisions that should be applied in the case of infection or decide to combine them with strict preventive measures to mitigate the risk of virus spread. The need for a deeper understanding of the smallholder context is essential to prevent ASFV incursion and spread. Precise indications for pig breeding and risk estimation for ASFV introduction, spread and maintenance, taking into account the fact that these recommendations would be inapplicable in some contexts, are the keys for efficient target control measures. The aim of this work is to describe the 305 outbreaks that occurred in domestic pigs in Sardinia during the last epidemic season (2010-2018) in depth, providing essential features associated with intensive and backyard farms where the outbreaks occurred. In addition, the study estimates the average of secondary cases by kernel transmission network. Considering the current absence of ASF outbreaks in domestic pig farms in Sardinia since 2018, this work is a valid tool to specifically estimate the risk associated with different farm types and update our knowledge in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Rolesu
- Sardinian Regional Veterinary Epidemiological Observatory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna “G. Pegreffi”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Mandas
- Sardinian Regional Veterinary Epidemiological Observatory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna “G. Pegreffi”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Loi
- Sardinian Regional Veterinary Epidemiological Observatory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna “G. Pegreffi”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Annalisa Oggiano
- Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Silvia Dei Giudici
- Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giulia Franzoni
- Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sardegna, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vittorio Guberti
- ISPRA—Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Cappai
- Sardinian Regional Veterinary Epidemiological Observatory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna “G. Pegreffi”, Cagliari, Italy
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Abstract
Abstract
The first confirmed case of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Serbia occurred in 2019. Since then, numerous outbreaks in domestic pigs and wild boars have been reported. Until April 2021, all the detected ASF cases were in backyard pigs. Beside backyard and smallholders farming systems as a dominant pig production system in Serbia, large commercial pig farms can also be found, located mostly in villages. In the beginning of April 2021, a large commercial farrow-to-finish pig farm in Serbia with almost 19,000 animals was affected with the ASF virus. The pig farm analysed in this paper is located in an area where ASF was confirmed earlier in both backyard and wild boars. In this study, we describe the overall epidemiological course of the ASF outbreak. Epidemiological investigation using a hypothesis-based approach was conducted in order to reconstruct the disease course until the official notification. All the available data from the farm were analysed with the aim to determine the high-risk period (HRP). Some of the key points to consider when it comes to the sources of infection and entry route of ASF are the following: contamination of the area in the immediate vicinity of the farm, risky human activities, irregularities and some omissions in the external farm biosecurity and immediate proximity of the city waste-yard where the communal waste is disposed of. It was concluded that when commercial pig farms are surrounded by villages with a large number of backyards, hence the anthropogenic factor is the key risk factor for ASF spreading.
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