An outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) has been confirmed at Thizama Village in Kohima district, Nagaland, following a positive laboratory test report from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, issued an order declaring immediate containment measures to prevent the spread of the highly contagious viral disease, which poses a serious threat to livestock.

The district administration has designated an Infected Zone within a 1 km radius of the affected premises at Thizama Village and a Surveillance Zone extending 10 km around it. Movement of live pigs and pork products has been strictly prohibited within, into, or out of these zones. All pork meat markets and butchery shops located in the designated areas have been ordered to remain closed until further notice.

Pig farmers have been instructed to restrict visitors, disinfect farm premises daily, and promptly report any unusual illness or mortality among pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services. The order also mandates that carcasses of infected or suspected animals must be disposed of through safe burial in accordance with official protocols, with dumping in water bodies or open areas strictly prohibited.

Authorities have warned that violations of these directives will invite legal action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, along with other relevant provisions of law. The district administration has urged residents and farmers to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with containment measures to safeguard livestock health in the region.