Senapati on alert after ASF outbreak in Nagaland
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, September 12 2024: Following an order from the joint secretary (Vety & AH), Senapati deputy commissioner has issued an order to initiate control measures against the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) through transportation of pigs from infected zones.

This development came after report of an outbreak of ASF in pigs in Nagaland.

In this connection, the DC has written a letter to Senapati SP to enforce strict regulations and surveillance at all points of entry and exit within the district, including livestock markets, slaughterhouses and transportation hubs.

Earlier, an order in pursuance of a letter of the veterinary and animal husbandry services director dated September 2, stating of an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in pigs at Thizama village, Chiephobozu Block, Kohima district, Nagaland and Mizoram, had requested for taking appropriate preventive measures against the spread of the disease to Manipur.

Accordingly, the state government in exercise of the power conferred under sub section (4) of Section 4 of "The Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Disease in Animals Act, 2009" decided to ban import of pigs and its products in the state from the neighbouring states including Nagaland and Mizoram.

Any person who contravenes or obstructs the competent officer performing duties under the Act shall be guilty of an offence and punishable in exercise of power under Section 6 of the Act.

Meanwhile, following detection of chickenpox cases among students, Dr Sumpi Percy, chief medical officer of Senapati district, has asked the principal of Rosary High School in Purul to close the school in order to prevent further spread of the disease.

The CMO has advised that the private schools in the Purul Sub-Division shut down for seven days to help contain the outbreak.

In an official letter issued Thursday, the CMO stated that the chickenpox outbreak at Purul Rosary High School has been a significant concern since August 2024, with 21 active cases reported to date.

Given the contagious nature of the disease and its potential public health impact, the CMO has recommended a temporary closure of the school starting from September 12, 2024, to contain further transmission.

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