African Swine Fever is one of the most feared pig diseases worldwide. It includes fever, anorexia, profound listlessness and death with haemorrhages throughout the carcasses and high mortalities. Initially described in Africa in the 1920s, major outbreaks were seen in Europe in the 1950s. The reappearance in 2007 in Europe has taken on an epidemic status in Europe and Asia. Now found as close as Indonesia and PNG this disease has the potential to devastate the Australian pig industry. While the disease is severe, the slow emergence of clinical signs in most herd situations make early diagnosis critical but difficult. Veterinarians will play a key role in diagnosing this disease and in any control program.
Presenter(s)
Dr John Carr
Picture source: www.ava.com.au
John started learning the ropes about pigs at the age of 11. He qualified as a veterinarian in 1982. After 5 years in general practice he returned to university to complete a Leverhulme residency in pigs and the PhD in urinary tract problems of pigs at Liverpool specializing in microbiology and pathology. He has a Diploma in Pig Medicine and is a Diplomate of the European College of Pig Health Management. His is recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as a pig specialist. He has taught production medicine at several universities: UK; Liverpool and Royal Veterinary College, London, US; North Carolina and Iowa State and in Western Australia at Murdoch and now James Cook University. John runs a consultancy practice with clients in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. John specialises in maintaining the health of pigs through promoting excellence in stockmanship and production practices. John had extensive experience as a pig vet, working in practice, academic and in teaching positions and is recognized as a pig specialist by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and is a Diplomate of the European College of Pig Health Management. His consultancy practice has clients in North America. Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. His insights into the appearance of African Swine Fever on farms are invaluable.
