The World Organization for Animal Health has officially adopted a new vaccine standard for African Swine Fever (ASF), marking a pivotal step in global efforts to control the disease. The standard was agreed upon during WOAH’s 92nd General Session held in Paris last week.
WOAH maintains that ASF control is achievable and emphasizes that any vaccines must be produced with the highest standards of quality, safety, and proven effectiveness. The organization cautioned that the use of low-quality or non-compliant vaccines could worsen the situation by potentially increasing the spread or mutation of the virus.
To meet the new international standard, manufacturers must provide substantial evidence that their vaccine reduces both the severity of ASF symptoms and the transmission rate of the virus. However, WOAH notes that vaccination alone is not a silver bullet. Effective disease control will still require strong biosecurity measures, strict oversight of animal movements, and import controls.
Ultimately, the decision to implement ASF vaccination programs lies with each country’s veterinary authority.
