Low sensitivity of African Swine Fever active surveillance efforts in Serbia

Abstract

Introduction: African Swine Fever (ASF) poses a significant threat to swine populations and the global pork industry. Effective surveillance is critical for early detection and control of the disease. However, active surveillance programs may face challenges in sensitivity, particularly in regions like Serbia, where ASF is an emerging concern.

Methodology: This study evaluated the sensitivity of active surveillance efforts for ASF in Serbia, focusing on sampling strategies, diagnostic methods, and data analysis. Surveillance activities included field sampling in high-risk areas, testing of domestic pigs and wild boars, and assessment of diagnostic accuracy for early detection.

Results: The analysis revealed low sensitivity in the current active surveillance framework, attributed to suboptimal sampling density, limited diagnostic reliability, and logistical constraints in high-risk regions. These limitations potentially delay ASF detection, increasing the risk of disease spread and complicating control measures.

Conclusions: Enhancing ASF surveillance in Serbia requires improving sampling strategies, deploying advanced diagnostic tools, and addressing logistical challenges to increase detection sensitivity and safeguard the swine industry.

Keywords: African swine fever; Serbia; active surveillance; domestic pigs; sensitivity.