Sri Vijaya Puram | October 22, 2026
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, has appealed to the public not to panic following the confirmation of African Swine Fever (ASF) in pigs in some areas of Sri Vijaya Puram and at Arong in Car Nicobar.
The Department clarified that African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs but does not infect humans or pose a direct risk to human health. It also stated that consumption of properly cooked pork does not transmit the disease to humans.
As there is no vaccine or specific treatment available for ASF in pigs, the current measures are focused on preventing the further spread of the disease among the pig population and protecting the livelihoods of pig farmers.
As a preventive measure, the Administration has imposed a complete ban on the movement of live pigs, pig feed, pork and pork products, including frozen products, across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The restrictions cover transportation by sea, road and air and will remain in force until further orders. Markets, fairs and exhibitions involving pigs have also been prohibited.
The Department has advised pig owners to keep their animals confined and segregated and immediately isolate any sick or suspected pig. Any unusual illness or sudden death among pigs should be reported without delay to the nearest veterinary institution.
Pig owners have also been cautioned against disposing of pig carcasses in the sea, creeks or any other water body.
Veterinary teams are carrying out surveillance, awareness activities and necessary disease-control measures under the supervision of Senior Veterinary Officers.
Reiterating its appeal, the Department said there was no cause for alarm among the general public. It stressed that strict compliance with the movement restrictions and prompt reporting of suspected cases by pig owners would be crucial to containing the disease.
The Department said it remains committed to safeguarding animal health and supporting livestock farmers while managing the situation through scientific measures.
