Africa swine fever attacks Kibaale

By ANDREW MUSINGUZI

The deadly African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, is devastating piggery farms in Kibaale district.

It was reported nearly a week ago in Mpanga, Kinena, Kyabasaija and Kitanda villages in Bwanswa sub-county and has so far killed over 30 pigs.

The outbreak of the disease has left many farmers who entirely depend on piggery projects folding arms as they watch their animals die.
The district veterinary officer, Moses Amanya, on Friday confirmed the outbreak of the disease in the area saying his office is investigating the source of the infection before imposing a quarantine restriction to prevent a wide-scale spread.

Joachim Byaruhanga, the Bwanswa sub-county veterinary assistant said the highly contagious disease with a mortality rate of 40 pigs per day presents signs and symptoms like coughing in affected pigs, diarrhea and low appetite.

Other symptoms include general weakness and the reddening of the skin, particularly around the ears and snout.