Hunters play a very important role in protecting the American swine herd from African swine fever (ASF)—a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that spreads rapidly and affects domestic and feral swine alike. Even one case of swine fever can wipe out every pig in the area, risking a multi-billion-dollar loss to our economy. You have a unique opportunity to help protect our pigs.
How You Can Spot Disease
Seeing signs of disease while hunting could be the first sign of ASF in the United States. ASF doesn’t make people sick, but it can spread quickly among pigs. If it spreads, it could harm pork production and threaten the jobs of more than 610,000 people who work in the pork industry.
When you’re out hunting, keep these tips in mind:
Know the Area
Be aware of feral swine populations where you plan to hunt. Check the Feral Swine Distribution Maps before your trip.
Avoid Sick Animals
If a feral swine looks sick or is found dead, don’t touch or move it. Before your trip, learn the Signs of African Swine Fever (7.24 MB).
Report What You See
Report sick or dead feral swine right away. Use the “Squeal on Pigs” app or contact APHIS Wildlife Services at 1-866-4-USDA-WS.
You can also use the Wildlife Services’ program directory to contact your local program. Another option is to reach out to your local Extension agency, wildlife agency, or other professionals in your area.
6 Key Steps To Prevent Disease Spread
ASF can devastate swine populations, but you can help protect our pigs from this highly contagious disease. Biosecurity during hunting includes all measures and procedures you can take to reduce the risk of introducing or spreading ASF and other animal diseases. By taking key biosecurity measures, hunters help protect our pigs.
Don't leave food where wild animals can access it. Dispose of all food and leftovers properly.
Field dress hunted game and fowl, when possible, to reduce the risk of disease transfer. Always wear disposable gloves when handling carcasses and, when possible, wash your hands afterward.
Package your catch in leak-proof containers to prevent environmental contamination from infected blood leaks.
Before entering or leaving areas where you've been around wildlife, change your clothes and shoes to prevent bringing disease home. Wash your hunting clothes and disinfect your shoes as soon as possible.
Clean and disinfect your vehicles and equipment. Make sure antlers and skins are cleaned of blood and viscera before leaving the area.
People can’t get ASF, but they can carry and spread the contagious virus on clothing, shoes, and equipment. Avoid contact with domestic pigs after hunting for any animal and wait to visit pig farms, petting farms, or anywhere pigs may be.
Report Any Signs
Immediately report animals with any signs to State or Federal animal health officials or call USDA for appropriate testing and investigation.
Call USDA at 1-866-536-7593.
