African Swine Fever (ASF) has left a swath of destruction everywhere it has gone. Rumors have swirled about just how much damage it has done to China?s hog production. If rumors are realized, China may have lost the equivalent of the total U.S. yearly swine production in a matter of months. A United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Undersecretary says the U.S. is ready to fight to keep this disease off our shores.
USDA Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Greg Ibach says his department has worked with Customs and Border Patrol agents to strengthen our defenses against ASF.
USDA?s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working with producers and veterinarians on biosecurity measures and response.
Ibach says even though we are coordinating with Mexico and Canada, a suitable vaccine could be years away.
In the meantime, all we can do is be vigilant.
