title: Drivers and risk factors for circulating African swine fever virus in Uganda, 2012-2013.
abstract: We explored observed risk factors and drivers of infection possibly associated with African swine fever (ASF) epidemiology in Uganda. Representative sub-populations of pig farms and statistics were used in a case-control model. Indiscriminate disposal of pig viscera and waste materials after slaughter, including on open refuse dumps, farm-gate buyers collecting pigs and pig products from within a farm, and retention of survivor pigs were plausible risk factors. Wire mesh-protected windows in pig houses were found to be protective against ASF infection. Sighting engorged ticks on pigs, the presence of a lock for each pig pen and/or a gate at the farm entrance were significantly associated with infection/non-infection; possible explanations were offered. Strict adherence to planned within-farm and community-based biosecurity, and avoidance of identified risk factors is recommended to reduce infection. Training for small-scale and emerging farmers should involve multidimensional and multidisciplinary approaches to reduce human-related risky behaviours driving infection.
authors: Department of Production Animal Studies (DPAS), Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI), National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), P.O. Box 96, Tororo, Uganda. Electronic address: tkabuuka@naro.go.ug.
authors: T
authors: T
authors: Kabuuka
authors: National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI), National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), P.O. Box 96, Tororo, Uganda.
authors: P D
authors: PD
authors: Kasaija
authors: National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI), National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), P.O. Box 96, Tororo, Uganda.
authors: H
authors: H
authors: Mulindwa
authors: Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Cheshire CH64 7TE, UK; Department of Theriogenology and Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B 2254, Sokoto, Nigeria.
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Shittu
authors: Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa.
authors: A D S
authors: AD
authors: Bastos
authors: Department of Production Animal Studies (DPAS), Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa.
authors: F O
authors: FO
authors: Fasina
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000357:African Swine Fever / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D000358:African Swine Fever Virus; D000818:Animals; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006799:Housing, Animal; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D012037:Refuse Disposal; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D034421:Sus scrofa; D013552:Swine; D014454:Uganda / Q000453:epidemiology
keywords: African swine fever; Biosecurity; Disease drivers; Risk factors; Uganda