USDA Calls on Hunters to Help Detect African Swine Fever

USDA says hunters could be among the first to spot the disease in wild hogs.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — USDA is asking hunters to watch for signs of African swine fever in wild hogs as part of efforts to protect the U.S. pork industry.

African Swine Fever has never been detected in the United States and does not affect humans, but USDA says hunters could be among the first to spot the disease if it reaches feral swine.

Hunters are being advised not to touch sick or dead hogs and to report them immediately. USDA also recommends cleaning clothing, shoes, vehicles and equipment after a hunt because humans can carry the virus and spread it to domestic pigs.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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