African Swine Fever, the forgotten pandemic

Abstract

Summary: African Swine Fever (ASF) is one of the most important diseases prevalent in swine populations. In recent times, it has devasted the pork industry—both commercial and backyard—throughout much of the world. ASF virus (ASFV) is highly contagious, and its persistence in pig meat, feed, fomites and the environment has facilitated its transboundary spread. Despite the global spread and impact of ASF, this pandemic has not garnered the widespread attention or alarm that has human diseases. Outside of the animal health community, in many respects it is the forgotten pandemic.