ASF-related Webinars

African swine fever (ASF) is a deadly pig disease that has been historically limited to Africa with few incursions in Europe. However, in 2007 a new incursion in Europe lead to its continuous spread from Easter Europe to Asia in the past 12 years. It was reported for the first time in China PR in August 2018 but since then has spread quickly to large parts of the country and to several countries of east and southeast Asia. In the past years, several meetings and workshops were conducted and have raised awareness on ASF and other pig diseases spread to or within countries of South East Asia. However, the level of preparedness and readiness is very heterogeneous in the region. Despite communication and prevention campaign, many farmers, traders, veterinarians have limited knowledge of this disease and its specific epidemiology and are unprepared to ASF introduction and control. Relevant and practical information on the key activities to prevent and to control ASF is needed on a large scale. The OIE Sub-Regional Representation for South East Asia has thus been developing a series of webinars on ASF-related topics. These webinars aim at providing scientific information, shared experience, tips, options to countries of the sub-region and are targeting a large public, including key staff from Veterinary Services or pig industry which would not be able to physically attend workshops during this crisis period. Recognised experts in the topics participate in the webinars.