OIE calls on its members to implement security measures against ASF
African Swine Fever (ASF) is turning into a global threat or at least is seen like that by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). Officials from OIE and UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) are making an appeal to the Member States to increase the biosecurity measures to stop the virus from spreading all over the world.
The General Assembly of National Delegates of the OIE has promoted the launching of a global initiative to control African swine fever (ASF), and even eradicate it, and reduce its devastating economic impacts for the swine industry.
This initiative, coordinated by the OIE and FAO, comes after the report presented at the same Assembly about the situation of the ASF in the world. During the second half of 2018, 25 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia reported ASF outbreaks on their territory. A situation that exposes the majority of pig populations on the planet to a direct threat.
OIE wants to use the mechanism of the GF-TADs (global framework for the control of transboundary animal diseases) with a view to developing, improving and harmonize partnerships and coordination at the national, regional and global levels. The objective is to control the disease, reinforce the prevention and preparation of the countries, as well as minimize the harmful effects on animal health, welfare and international trade.
In the coming months, the OIE will establish a work program in collaboration with FAO, taking into account existing regional initiatives. In light of the global socio-economic repercussions of this disease, control of the ASF is a high global priority, both for the affected countries and for disease-free countries. With this perspective, the OIE calls on its Member Countries to implement their relevant standards and practices to effectively control the disease, especially through:
Programs of prevention, early detection, intervention and compensatory policies.
Biosecurity measures.
Traceability of pigs and control of their movements.
Effective official controls.
Management of wild pig populations.
The sacrifice of animals according to the rules of animal welfare and safe disposal of their contaminated products.
Improved collaboration among stakeholders and between countries.
Continuous training and awareness programs.
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