African swine fever in Mozambique: review, risk factors and considerations for control

Abstract

African swine fever (ASF) is the most important disease that constrains pig production in Mozambique. Until 1994 it was apparently restricted to the central and northern provinces, but since 1994 outbreaks have been experienced throughout the country. ASF causes severe economic losses both in the small commercial sector and among the large numbers of small-scale producers in the family sector in rural and peri-urban areas. The history of ASF in Mozambique since its first confirmation in 1960 is briefly reviewed, recent outbreaks are reported, and the available information on the virus genotypes that have been responsible for some of the outbreaks is presented. Epidemiological factors that contribute to ASF outbreaks and strategies for limiting the negative effects of the disease in the different pig farming sectors in Mozambique, including raising farmer and community awareness, are discussed.