Risk factors for the occurence of African swine fever in Patongo town council, Aago county.
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Date
2025
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Busitema University
Abstract
Background: African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease causing significant economic losses in the pig industry. In Patongo Town Council, Agago District, persistent ASF outbreaks have severely impacted smallholder pig farmers. However, the key risk factors facilitating the transmission of the disease in this specific area are not well- defined. This study aimed to evaluate the key risk factors explaining the occurrence of ASF, with a specific focus on poor biosecurity measures, the uncontrolled pig trading system, variations in production systems, and fomite-transmission routes.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four parishes (Pece, Akomo, Forest, and Oporot) where pig rearing is a primary livelihood activity. The target population included smallholder pig producers, veterinary officers, and other stakeholders. Data were collected using a mixed-methods approach, including structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and direct field observations to assess farm-level risk factors and transmission dynamics. Checklists were employed to evaluate biosecurity compliance and patterns of pig movement. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted to determine significant relationships between the identified risk factors and ASF occurrence.
Results: The analysis identified several key risk factors significantly associated with ASF occurrence. Critical gaps in biosecurity measures were observed, including a lack of perimeter fencing, non-disinfection of equipment, and unrestricted visitor access. The uncontrolled pig trading system, characterized by informal movements and the trade of sick or asymptomatic pigs, was a major transmission pathway. Variations in production systems, particularly free-
ranging and tethering practices, increased pigs' exposure to contaminated environments and wild suids. Furthermore, fomite transmission via contaminated vehicles, equipment, and footwear was a substantial contributor to the spread of the virus between farms and localities.
Conclusively, the persistence of African Swine Fever in Patongo Town Council is driven by a combination of poor biosecurity, an unregulated trading system, high-risk production practices, and fomite transmission. The findings from this study are highly beneficial for policymakers, veterinarians, and pig producers. To reduce ASF transmission, effective disease prevention strategies must be designed, focusing on enhancing on-farm biosecurity protocols, formalizing and controlling the pig movement and trade, and promoting safer production systems. Improving the control of ASF is fundamental to promoting the sustainability of pig production
and safeguarding livelihoods in the region.
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Undergraduate research report
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Citation
Lubangakene, A. (2025). Risk factors for the occurence of African swine fever in Patongo town council, Aago county. [Unpublished undergraduate research report]. Busitema University.