African swine fever virus and human health

It can cause severe disease in pigs and spread through contact with infected animals, their body fluids, contaminated pork, feed, clothing, vehicles or equipment. Its animal-health importance does not make it a cause of fever in people.

The virus is different from influenza viruses and from the virus commonly called swine flu. The word “fever” describes a prominent sign in affected pigs; it does not imply a human fever illness.

Humans may mechanically move the virus between pig populations on contaminated objects or animal products. Biosecurity therefore matters even though handlers do not become sick from the virus itself.

Leave a sick or dead pig undisturbed and prevent access by other animals. Do not transport pigs, pork, feed or farm equipment from the site. Contact the relevant veterinary or animal-health authority and follow its cleaning, testing and movement instructions.

After accidental contact, wash hands and exposed skin, remove footwear and clothing before visiting another pig premises, and keep potentially contaminated items separate. Do not use household cleaning measures as a substitute for official veterinary guidance.

Any illness in a person should be judged by its own symptoms. Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, new confusion, collapse, a seizure, blue or grey lips, or inability to stay awake.

Arrange non-emergency clinical advice for fever that continues, worsening cough, painful skin changes or persistent stomach symptoms. Tell the clinician about travel, animal work, raw animal products and insect bites so other infections can be considered.

You can ask what human diagnosis explains the symptoms, whether a different animal-associated infection is possible, what home care is suitable and what change would require an urgent return.