USDA Exercises Preparedness Plan for ASF

African Swine Fever – it is a highly contagious virus among hog herds. In recent months we’ve seen the devastating impacts of ASF on the China, killing about half of the country’s hog herd. The disease is now spreading through other parts of Asia and Eastern Europe.

Ag Director Shannon Gray spoke with Resident Director for Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Lab, Dr. Gayman Helman, who says USDA is taking the virus’ threat to the U.S. hog herd seriously. While there are no cases of African Swine Fever in the U.S. at this time, USDA  is partnering with local organizations, like TVMDL, to run producers through scenario exercises to better prepare them should the disease ever enter the country.