[African Swine Fever introduction into Madagascar, history and lessons from an emergence].

Abstract

African Swine Fever (ASF) was diagnosed for the first time in Madagascar in 1998. ASF has apparently been introduced from the African continent to the southern part of the island with a subsequent spread to other regions except for areas in the north and in the west. The epidemic has had severe economic consequences for the home market of pork meat production. This article reviews the course of the epidemic with particular emphasis on the vectors involved in the transmission of the virus, such as the soft tick, Ornithodoros moubata porcinus. Presence of this vector and of the bushpig, Potamochoerus larvatus, as a potential wild reservoir, are some of the major obstacles in control of ASF in Madagascar. A veterinary disease surveillance system has to be urgently warranted.