Wild game harvesters are being urged to be on the look out for signs of African Swine Fever (ASF) in wild pigs.
Facts about ASF
- ASF is a highly infectious and contagious viral disease that can affect all pig species (wild and domestic)
- ASF does not affect human health or food safety (i.e. pork meat is safe to eat)
- ASF outbreaks have been declared in Africa, Europe and Asia, with the closest outbreak occurring in Timor-Leste (East Timor) only 650kms from northern Australia
- ASF poses a major threat to the Australian wild game and domestic pork industry if it is found in Australia
- Wild pigs are the most likely carriers of ASF – once the wild pig population becomes infected, the infection is likely to persist
- ASF has been responsible for the significant culling of wild pigs and the loss of export markets due to bans by importing countries free of the disease.
ASF outbreaks since 2016
Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, wild game harvesters must take all reasonable steps to ensure they do not spread a pest, disease or contaminant.
We must all work together to prevent the introduction of ASF in Australia.
What to look for:
The signs of ASF in pigs can include:
- death (possibly before other signs are noticeable)
- blotching/reddening of the skin
- high fever
- lack of coordination or stiff gait
- difficulty breathing
- abortion
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
Inspect carcasses for:
- pinpoint reddening in organs such as heart and kidneys
- reddening of the skin
- excess fluid around the heart
- enlarged lymph nodes
- enlarged, fragile and/or dark-coloured spleen
Report signs of ASF
Early detection is vital.
If you suspect ASF, you must report it to Biosecurity Queensland immediately on 13 25 23 or contact the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 (monitored 24/7).
Where possible, take photos of suspect conditions or signs of the disease and record the location (preferably GPS coordinates).
More information
Visit qld.gov.au/AfricanSwineFever or call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
For information about food safety call Safe Food Queensland on (07) 3253 9800.