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U.S. Watches, Prepares for African Swine Fever

Hemorrhagic disease spreading in China

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African swine fever, a highly contagious hemorrhagic disease, has infected pigs in 29 Chinese provinces with the highest densities of swine production, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Dr. Tom Burkgren, executive director of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, told JAVMA News the causative virus is hardy, and there is no vaccine. European and Chinese producers have been unable to stop its spread.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations published a warning in September that African swine fever almost certainly will spread in Asia.

Researchers are trying to find ingredients that can reduce the viability of viruses in feed, following the example set by at least one product that reduces bacteria survival.

Even if someone identifies a product effective on viruses in feed, Food and Drug Administration approval may take at least a few years.

Read the full report here.

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