A Virus on the Move: How Far Will African Swine Fever Go in Assam?

African Swine Fever (ASF) has taken a dangerous turn across several districts of Upper Assam, forcing the state government and district administrations to enforce strict containment measures. Veterinary officials say the virus is spreading aggressively and remains extremely difficult to control, leaving pig farmers deeply worried about their future.

Dibrugarh district is among the worst affected. Hundreds of pigs have already been culled in 11 locations, following laboratory confirmation of ASF. Moran’s Khowang, Naharkatia, Tingkhong and Borbari areas have reported a sharp rise in infections, dealing a severe blow to small-scale farmers.

One such farmer is Atul Dihingia of Khawang-Baghtali Pather village, whose farm lost 43 pigs after tests returned positive for ASF. The district administration has since declared a 10-kilometre ban on the sale and movement of pork around the affected zone.

Veterinary officials confirmed that all samples tested so far have identified the African Swine Fever virus—not swine flu—and urged the public to remain alert while avoiding misinformation.

To contain the outbreak, the state government has already issued a stringent SOP:

• Random pork sales are banned.

• Pork can be sold only after mandatory health checks at approved slaughterhouses.

• Inter-district transport of pigs is prohibited.

• Pigs entering Assam from outside the state will undergo compulsory health screening.

• Any pig testing positive for ASF will be culled immediately.

Officials say these steps are vital to prevent further spread of the highly contagious virus. Surveillance and culling operations are currently underway across multiple Upper Assam districts, and the government has assured compensation for affected farmers.

Speaking to reporters, one of the District Veterinary Officer said:

“African Swine Fever has now taken a pandemic form in the state. After receiving information about the outbreak at this farm, blood samples were collected and sent to Guwahati. When the results came back positive, the area was declared a 1-km infected zone and a 10-km surveillance zone.

There were about 60 pigs in total. Seventeen had already died, and we found 43 alive, which we have now culled as per protocol. The government will compensate farmers—Rs 2,200 for small pigs; pig feed at Rs 22 per kilo; Rs 15,000 for pigs weighing over 100 kg; and Rs 12,000, Rs 8,400 and Rs 5,000 depending on the weight.

This virus is extremely strong and spreads only through direct contact, not through air. Sadly, there is still no treatment or vaccine available.”

With the virus continuing to ravage pig farms, the concerned department have appealed to farmers, traders and transporters to fully comply with the guidelines to protect both livestock and livelihoods.

Also Read: Assam: Nagaon battles African Swine Fever