Risk of African Swine Fever Virus Introduction into Brazil

• Grant number: 23/15573-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: June 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Preventive Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: José Henrique de Hildebrand e Grisi Filho
• Grantee: Carolina Moura de Oliveira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

African Swine Fever (ASF) is an infectious disease predominantly affecting the Suidae family, characterized by heightened mortality rates and a lack of effective clinical treatment and vaccine. The primary control strategy involves eliminating infected individuals, thereby causing significant economic loss and social ramifications in affected nations. Despite maintaining an African Swine Fever-free status, Brazil remains at risk of ASF introduction, requiring constant surveillance. This study is designed to assess the risk associated with the potential introduction of the ASF virus into Brazil through legal imports of live pigs and pork derivatives, employing scenario trees and adhering to the methodology endorsed by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). The data will encompass trade of live pigs and pork derivatives between 2013 and 2021, to be gathered from the Ministry of Economy of Brazil, WOAH, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and the International Trade Center of the United Nations. The core objective of this research is to extend our understanding on the risk of introduction of ASF in Brazil. This study will offer key insights to guide strategic decision-making within Brazil's African Swine Fever surveillance system, reinforcing preventive measures, and improving Brazil's defenses against the potential impact of ASF.