Farmers in the UK have been warned they need to instigate contingency plans amid growing fears that deadly African swine fever (ASF) continues to move around Europe and other parts of the world.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board said the UK remains at high risk for a disease incursion.

African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease of pigs. In its acute form the disease generally results in high mortality. ASF is a different disease to swine flu. The virus does not affect people and there is no impact on human health.

The UK’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has urged people to be vigilant following confirmation of African Swine Fever (ASF) in a number of countries across Europe.

The chief veterinary officer (CVO) for Northern Ireland, Robert Huey, said: “To date there has never been a case of ASF in the UK or Ireland and while there is no human health risk with the disease, it is easily transmitted in pork products and is potentially fatal to pigs. We must remain vigilant and not become complacent of the risks.

“If the disease were to reach our shores, it would have a significant detrimental impact on our pig industry. It would have a devastating effect on export markets and would also require the humane culling of pigs on infected premises to prevent further spread.”

Mandy Nevel, head of Animal Health & Welfare, at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board said the importance of contingency planning cannot be overstated.

“Much of the spread of ASF is caused by people moving infected meat. Imported pork from areas where ASF is already circulating is, therefore, our greatest risk,” she said. “While border checks are a deterrent, we know that pork, which could contain the ASF virus, does reach and enter the UK. This means the best way we can keep ASF out of our pig farms is through strict biosecurity.

“Most pig producers are aware of this and maintain high standards. Unfortunately, some do not.”

She added should ASF be identified in the country it is likely there would be significant movement restrictions on pigs and visitors.

“Now is the time to make sure that you have thought through the ramifications of locking down your farm,” Nevel told farmers. “In such a circumstance, much will be out of your hands, but knowing where you could/could not send or buy pigs from, who to contact and what help is around is all useful information that you can gather now.”

Nevel continued: “We encourage all pig units to consider the issues that would manifest on farm and identify any possible solutions that could help ease the difficulties.

“There is no doubt, if ASF hits, it will hit hard. Having a contingency plan is not going to solve all the issues but it can help.

“In your contingency plan you should think about animal movements on and off the farm and to the abattoir, as well as feed supplies, haulage, other visitors and so on. It is also worth considering the impact of such a disease outbreak on staff. On affected farms, pigs will be culled. It is a horrible thought, but thinking the logistics through before the event can help.”

During the last outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, Nevel said many people suffered mental health issues.

“Employers have an obligation to look after the wellbeing of staff and this is particularly needed during times of crisis. There are several organisations that can provide support before it is needed.

“We must keep up our strict biosecurity protocols to prevent ASF ever getting on our farms. We can consider steps we may take if we, or our neighbours, do become affected.”