South Korea: MAFRA Detects ASF DNA in Pig Feed Additive as Outbreaks Increase (n=18)

 

#19,061

Just over a month ago (Jan 16th) South Korea reported their first African Swine Fever outbreak of 2026, and since then 17 more outbreaks have been reported across several provinces (Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungnam, Jeonbuk, Jeonnam, Gyeongbuk, and Gyeongnam).

This is triple what was reported by South Korea in all of 2025, and two weeks ago MAFRA ordered enhanced quarantine and biosecurity measures; with an emphasis on culling, quarantines, and disinfection of people and vehicles leaving farms.

African Swine fever is notoriously infectious, and the virus can remain viable for weeks or even months in the environment. Hence the strict rules on what you can't feed pigs; swill (kitchen scraps), imported meat, or contaminated forage. 

Most commercial farms today rely almost exclusively on commercial compound feed (typically corn/wheat/rice (60-80%) and soybean (15-25%) , along with nutritional additives like fats/oils & vitamins).

Many feed companies add heat-treated Spray-Dried Porcine Plasma (SDPP) as a "starter diets" for weaned piglets.  Only `healthy' donors animals supposed to be used, and this 80°C heat-treatment is designed to kill all possible infectious contaminants, including ASF or FMD. 

At least, that's the plan. 

Yesterday South Korea's MAFRA announced the detection of ASF DNA in at least two samples of stored porcine plasma; the first time that ASF genetic material has been found in a feed ingredient in Korea.

As this was a PCR finding, further tests will be required to determine if this was from dead DNA fragments or a live, and still infectious, virus.   

Given the gravity of this finding, MAFRA is assuming the worst; that these detections indicate a viable - and infectious - virus, and have ordered a nationwide ban and farmers holding contaminated feed must immediately incinerate or bury it. 

It will take a week or two before we know if these feed products actually contain infectious virus, and perhaps even longer to figure out where the system broke down.  

I've reproduced the (translated) MAFRA report below.  I'll have a brief postscript after the break.

Results of the (interim) epidemiological investigation into African swine fever and quarantine measures to prevent its spread.
2026.02.20 16:33:11 Foot-and-Mouth Disease Prevention Division, Quarantine Policy Bureau

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters for African Swine Fever ( Director Song Mei-ryeong, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs , hereinafter referred to as the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters ) will confirm the situation of the outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) and the results of the epidemiological investigation on Friday, February 20, and will promote quarantine measures to prevent the spread .

1. Occurrence situation and quarantine measures

Since the first outbreak of African swine fever in Gangneung, Gangwon Province on January 16th of this year, a total of 18 cases have occurred* in Hwaseong and Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, and Cheorwon, Gangwon Province, as of February 19th . The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters is currently taking quarantine measures , including culling and disinfection of farms where ASF has occurred , movement restrictions on quarantine areas and farms related to epidemiology , and surveillance and inspection , to prevent further outbreaks of ASF .

* Occurred in 2026 (18 cases ): 6 in Gyeonggi , 2 in Gangwon , 3 in Chungcheongnam-do , 2 in Jeollabuk-do , 2 in Jeollanam-do , 1 in Gyeongbuk , 2 in Gyeongnam

** Past occurrences : (`19) 14 cases → (`20) 2 → (`21) 5 → (`22) 7 → (`23) 10 → (`24) 11 → (`25) 6

 In addition, we are strengthening quarantine management , including nationwide inspections of pig farms , inspections of pigs shipped from slaughterhouses and environmental inspections , and crackdowns on the distribution and trading of illegal livestock products , to block further spread by analyzing recent outbreak patterns and causes and blocking factors of artificial transmission .

* ① ( Comprehensive farm inspection ) Comprehensive inspection ( carcasses , environment ) of pig farms nationwide , starting with breeding farms and general farms ; ② ( Inspection of shipped pigs ) In parallel with the comprehensive farm inspection , inspection of shipped pigs and environment at pig slaughterhouses nationwide (69 locations , 1,000 households ) using private organizations ; ③ ( Farm workers ) Environmental inspection of worker accommodations and goods , notification of farm workers and quarantine rules, and prohibition of gatherings and events ; ④ ( Illegal livestock products ) Prohibition of bringing in and storing illegal livestock products into farms , crackdown on illegal distribution and transactions, etc. 

2. Interim results of the epidemiological investigation

The Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency is conducting an epidemiological investigation into various risk factors, including farm products , farm workers, and illegal livestock products, to determine the cause of the sporadic outbreaks of ASF across the country .

This year, as the number of deaths of young pigs ( piglets ) has increased in farms where ASF occurred , unlike in the past, we have been focusing on investigating feed containing pig plasma proteins fed to young pigs , feed manufacturers ( suppliers ) , and feed raw material manufacturers .

* Feed on the farm where the outbreak occurred (142 cases ), feed suppliers (6 locations, 56 cases ), feed raw material suppliers (1 location, 26 cases ), feed raw material inspection agencies (2 locations , 68 cases )

During the intensive investigation, two ASF genes were detected * among stored samples requested by feed raw material ( porcine plasma protein ) manufacturers to feed raw material testing agencies .

* Detection of ASF genes means detection of virus segments , and whether it is an infectious virus requires further confirmation through experiments.

This is the first case in Korea where ASF genes were detected in feed raw materials . It is presumed that ASF- contaminated pig blood entered the feed supply chain , and the possibility of ASF being introduced through the supply of contaminated feed has been confirmed .

3. Key measures under the Livestock Infectious Disease Prevention Act

The central government will first have the local government's livestock quarantine officer instruct the owners of feed in which ASF genes have been detected at pig farms to take measures such as incineration or burial of the relevant items in accordance with the Livestock Infectious Disease Prevention Act * .

* Article 23 of the Livestock Infectious Disease Prevention Act ( Incineration of contaminated items, etc. )

In addition, as the ASF gene was detected in the feed raw materials, the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency plans to disclose the information on the farm where the ASF gene was detected, along with the production date and raw material ingredients related to the detection , on the website of the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (www.qia.go.kr) in accordance with the Livestock Infectious Disease Prevention Act, and recommend that pig farms nationwide stop using the feed as a preventive measure .

* Article 3-2 ( Disclosure of information on the status of outbreak of livestock infectious diseases ) Paragraph 1 of the Livestock Infectious Disease Prevention Act , Article 2-2 Paragraph 1 Subparagraph 5 of the Enforcement Decree of the same Act , Article 3-3 Paragraph 2 Subparagraph 6 of the Enforcement Rules of the same Act

In addition, a nationwide inspection of pig farms is in progress , and if a pig farm is identified that used feed raw materials in which the ASF gene was detected, the farm in question will be inspected first to take measures to prevent the spread .

4. Key measures under the Feed Management Act

For businesses that are confirmed to have manufactured or sold feed that is confirmed to be contaminated with pathogens that cause disease in humans or animals , or that have used such feed as a raw material for feed, measures such as prohibiting the manufacture , sale , and use of such feed will be taken in accordance with Article 14 of the Feed Management Act .

In addition, we plan to consider administrative measures such as cancellation of manufacturing registration or suspension of business in accordance with Article 25 of the same Act , and imprisonment of up to 3 years or a fine of up to 30 million won in accordance with Article 33 .

In addition , if it is determined that feed inspection is necessary to ensure the safety and quality of feed, additional inspections will be conducted in accordance with Article 21 of the Feed Management Act . If a violation is confirmed , necessary measures to eliminate hazardous factors, such as an order to recall or discard the feed in question, will be ordered in accordance with Article 24 of the same Act. In addition, the fact of an order to recall or discard in accordance with Article 24-2 of the same Act will be announced .

4. Requests

Park Jeong-hoon , Director of the Food Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said , “ This is the first case in Korea where ASF genes have been detected in feed raw materials , and it is presumed that ASF- contaminated pig blood has entered the feed supply chain. Therefore , we request that swift measures be taken in accordance with relevant regulations regarding the feed raw materials and related products . ”

In addition , he emphasized, “ Based on the results of epidemiological investigations , we plan to continue implementing measures to block the spread , so we ask for active cooperation from livestock farms , local governments, associations, and other related organizations . ”

Between 2018-2019 China suffered a catastrophic ASF outbreak - and while China officially reported < 2 million pigs lost - outside sources estimated their losses to be 100 times higher (see African Swine Fever In China: Epizootic or An EpicZootic?).

Pork prices in China tripled - when you could get it - and the virus eventually crossed over into Vietnam, North Korea, South Korea, Mongolia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines.

All reasons why South Korea isn't waiting for the final test results before taking all possible steps to stop this outbreak. 

J. Inf.: Zoonotic Threat of Novel H6N2 Avian Influenza Virus with Internal Genes Exclusively Derived from H9N2, China, 2025

Transmission patterns between different hosts of  H6 viruses.

 
Credit: JOI: Prevalence and Transmission of Influenza A (H6) Viruses

#19,060

Last August, in JOI: Prevalence and Transmission of Influenza A (H6) Viruses Pose a Potential Threat to Public Health, we revisited the H6 family of influenza A viruses, which are endemic in Asian poultry and are believed to have some degree of zoonotic potential. 

H6N1 briefly made headlines in 2013 and 2014 after a college student in Taiwan was hospitalized with pneumonia (see Taiwan CDC: Epidemiological Analysis Of Human H6N1 Infection) and several dogs were found infected (see EID Journal: Influenza A(H6N1) In Dogs, Taiwan).

The CDC currently has this to say about H6 viruses: Avian Influenza A(H6) Viruses

LPAI A(H6) virus outbreaks in birds are not internationally reportable, therefore, its true prevalence is unknown. However, LPAI A(H6) viruses have been identified in various species of wild waterfowl and domestic poultry in Eurasia and the Americas. Known subtypes of A(H6) viruses include LPAI A(H6N1) and A(H6N2). In 2013, Taiwan reported the first known human infection with LPAI A(H6N1) virus.

While not a `reportable' disease, over the past several years we've seen growing interest by Chinese scientists over some of its recent evolutionary moves, including: 

Study: Influenza A (H6N6) Viruses Isolated from Chickens Replicate in Mice and Human lungs Without Prior Adaptation

Preprint: Progressive Adaptation of H6N1 Avian Influenza Virus in Taiwan Enhances Mammalian Infectivity, Pathogenicity and Transmissibility

That said, H6 viruses remain fairly far down our pandemic watch list, with H5N1 getting most of our attention, although it ranks 7th on the CDC IRAT List (see below).

In terms of likelihood of emergence, the CDC currently ranks a Chinese EA H1N1 `G4' swine virus at the very top of their list of zoonotic influenza A viruses with pandemic potential, with 2 other North American swine variant viruses and H9N2 scoring above H5N1.

While most (but not all) H9N2 infections have been relatively mild, it continues to evolve towards a more easily human transmissible virus (see EM&I: Enhanced Replication of a Contemporary Avian Influenza A H9N2 Virus in Human Respiratory Organoids).

H9N2 is also a highly promiscuous virus, which reassorts easily with other influenza A strains, and often lends its internal genes to more dangerous HA subtypes (see PNAS: Evolution Of H9N2 And It’s Effect On The Genesis Of H7N9).

All of which brings us to a new letter, published this week in the Journal of Infection, that reports on the detection and spread of a new H6N2 reassortment virus, which sports not only the NA gene from H9N2, but all 6 internal genes as well.

Although we haven't seen reports of human infection with this new reassortment (and the H6 HA retains avian characteristics), this wholesale replacement of 7 gene segments by H9N2 adds a number of known or suspected mammalian mutations to the mix. 

This new reassortant has been detected in poultry in several several provinces in eastern China at the end of 2025, suggesting it already well established. 

While none of this guarantees future greatness for this H6 reassortant, it is hard to imagine a better advantage, given H9N2's track record. I've just provided the link, and some excerpts from the correspondence. 

Click through to read the full report. I'll have a bit more after the break. 

Letter to the Editor

Zoonotic Threat of Novel H6N2 Avian Influenza Virus with Internal Genes Exclusively Derived from H9N2, China, 2025
 Kaituo Liu 1, Xiyue Wang 1, Jiehong Huang 1, Pan Liu, Yijia Sun, Wenhao Yang, Xiaolong Lu, Yu Chen, Jiao Hu, Min Gu, Xiaowen Liu, Shunlin Hu, Ruyi Gao, Xiaoquan Wang, Xiufan Liu

(EXCERPT)

In this study, we report the identification and characterization of a novel H6N2 reassortant virus isolated from poultry in Eastern China. Genetic analysis reveals that this virus possesses a hemagglutinin (HA) gene from circulating H6N6 waterfowl viruses, a neuraminidase (NA) gene from endemic poultry H9N2, and most critically, a complete set of six internal genes derived entirely from the H9N2 lineage, a genetic constellation known to potentiate cross-species infection8.

This represents the first natural detection of an H6N2 virus with an internal gene cassette exclusively derived from H9N2, and the virus has already achieved widespread circulation in in Eastern China (Jiangsu, Shandong, and Zhejiang provinces) poultry populations, indicating successful establishment.

The emergence of the novel H6N2 virus underscores the persistent and evolving threat posed by the co‑circulation of multiple subtype AIVs in China. Given that its molecular genetic profile indicates an elevated potential for cross‑species transmission, we strongly recommend that immediate enhanced and targeted surveillance, along with reinforced control measures in poultry and wild birds, should be implemented promptly to contain viral spread before human infections occur. 

(Continue. . . )

Admittedly, we've seen recent warnings from Chinese scientists on the spread of other, equally concerning, novel influenza A viruses, including last summer's Virology: Assessment of the Public Health Risk of Novel Reassortant H3N3 Avian Influenza Viruses That Emerged in Chickens).

While much of the news out of China is restricted, the impression is that both LPAI and HPAI viruses are spiralling out of control in Chinese poultry. 

Last November (see China MOA Announces New Guidelines to Expedite Animal Vaccine Strain Approvals ) China's MOA published a remarkable announcement - which tacitly admitted that many of their current animal vaccines (including against H9N2) were inadequate and/or suboptimal - and ordered major regulatory changes in order to accelerate updates.

This wasn't exactly a surprise, as previously, in NPJ Vaccines: Impact of Inactivated Vaccine on Transmission and Evolution of H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus in Chickens, we'd seen evidence that inactivated vaccines had failed to prevent - or even reduce - H9N2 in China's poultry, and they may have driven viral evolution (including mammalian adaptations).

While this report on H6N2 is concerning, it is part of a pattern we are seeing of increased diversity in avian influenza viruses circulating in China. While most of these reassortants are destined to fade into obscurity, it only takes one overachiever to put us back into pandemic mode. 

Stay tuned. 

New Jersey's Wild Bird Die-Off

 

#19,059

The Northern Hemisphere is at - or near - peak avian flu for this winter season, with literally scores of outbreaks being reported on a daily basis.  So much so, that reporting on individual outbreaks has become nearly futile. 

While we get reasonably accurate numbers of poultry lost to HPAI H5, its impact on wild birds and mammals can only be guesstimated. 

A year ago, in Nature Reviews: The Threat of Avian Influenza H5N1 Looms Over Global Biodiversity, we looked at some of those estimates:

An estimated half a billion domestic fowl have died of H5N1 (ref. 4), and this number is rising; mortality in wildlife is more difficult to quantify than in poultry, but the effects are substantial. By mid-2024, H5N1 infections were documented in at least 406 bird and 51 mammal wild species (according to reports on the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS)), and available reports suggest that multiple millions of wild animal individuals may have died (Fig. 1a).

The most noteworthy mass-mortality events include more than 200,000 wild birds in coastal areas of Peru6; 24,000 sea lions in South America7; 20,500 wild birds in Scotland8; 6,500 Cape cormorants in Namibia9; and 17,400 elephant seals, including >95% of the pups in Argentina10. These figures, however, largely underestimate actual mortalities, owing to a pervasive lack of monitoring, testing and reporting — particularly in inaccessible areas and in disadvantaged countries4,7.

These numbers are now 18 months old, and H5's carnage has only increased since then (see ISIRV: Update on H5N1 Panzootic: Infected Mammal Species Increase by Almost 50% in Just Over a Year). While H5N1 has yet to crack the human code, it is already a devastating pandemic (panzootic) in animals. 

The long-term impact of this loss of biodiversity remains uncertain. By the time we know, however, it will be a fait accompli. 

Last week, in Several States Warn On Contact With Wild Birds/Mammals, we looked at a sampling of recent non-poultry outbreaks across the country. This week, the hot-spot (at least based on media reporting) for avian flu appears to be New Jersey. 

As the following FluTracker's Thread illustrates, over the past few days the NJ Department of Environment has been flooded with reports of hundreds of dead birds (mostly in Snow geese and Canadian geese) littered across the state. 

Credit NJ Fish & Wildlife

What Agencies are Responding to the Outbreak?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  states that the ongoing nationwide H5N1 outbreak is primarily an animal health issue that poses low risk to the health of the public. The three principal state agencies involved in monitoring and responding to avian influenza are NJDEP Fish & Wildlife, the New Jersey Department of Health, and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, which provide the following updates:

• Between August 2025 and February 17th,2026, we have confirmed detections in 8 counties (Bergen, Burlington, Middlesex, Monmouth, Salem, Somerset, Sussex and Warren) and a preliminary detection in 5 counties (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, and Hunterdon).
• The New Jersey Department of Health  continues to closely monitor H5N1 and collaborate with state and federal partners on preparedness and response to H5N1. There are no reports of H5N1 in humans in NJ, but the virus has been detected in multiple domestic cats: H5 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Confirmed in New Jersey Cat 
• The New Jersey Department of Agriculture  reports that there have been confirmed detections in domestic poultry in Hudson, Mercer, Union and Essex Counties.

While tests on these most recent bird deaths are pending, yesterday the Burlington County Department of Health Posted:

The Burlington County Health Department is reminding residents to be aware of the potential spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu, following the discovery of large numbers of dead geese in Hainesport and other South Jersey locations this week.

The Health Department has not been notified of any positive tests confirming the birds died from bird flu, however, officials are treating it as a likely bird flu case.

Residents are encouraged to review avian flu information and guidance on the County Health Department website and follow all recommended precautions. The webpage is at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/2115/H5N1-Bird-Flu . Information is also posted in County parks.

Among the recommended precautions:

• Avoid contact with wild birds;

• Avoid unprotected contact with wild or domestic birds;

• Report cases of dead or sick wild birds to the NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection at 877-927-6337;

• Report cases of dead or sick domestic birds or livestock to the NJ Dept. of Agriculture at 609-671-6400 or state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov .

• Pet owners should keep dogs and cats away from areas of high concentrations of geese or geese waste;

• Pet owners who notice signs of illness in their pet bird, cat, dog or any other domesticated animal should immediately contact their family veterinarian to safely examine your pet and test for bird flu if needed.

Additional guidance is available on the New Jersey H5N1 page at https://www.nj.gov/.../divi.../ah/livestockhealth/h5n1.shtml .

On Tuesday, the Borough of Pitman announced the closure of two parks on their Facebook page due to excessive bird deaths.

 This was followed up by a more detailed announcement:

It was just about a year ago, we were following the outbreak of H5N1 among colony of domestic cats on a property in western New Jersey (see Hunterdon County DOH Reports 4 More Cats Test Positive for HPAI H5N1 (Ttl=6)).

While we await test results, for now the NJ Fish and Wildlife Department is offering the following :

What Do You Do if You See a Group of Sick or Dead Wild Birds?

Please fill out the Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form .

How Do I Report Sick or Dead Domestic Birds?

If you are reporting sick or dead domestic poultry, please call the New Jersey Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health at (609) 671-6400.

What if I Have Questions About Human or Domestic Pet Health Due to H5N1?

If you have questions about human or domestic pet health due to H5N1, please direct your questions to your local health department .

What are Disposal Options for Property Owners?

While NJ DEP Fish & Wildlife does not advise that the public handle sick or dead wildlife, if you have a dead bird on your property and are electing to dispose of the carcass, precautions should be taken:

• PPE should be worn, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
• Avoid direct contact between you and the animal by using a shovel to move the carcass.
• Double-bag each bird, close the bag using a zip-tie, and place in an outdoor trash bin inaccessible to pets and other wildlife.
• Following disposal, immediately wash your hands with soap and water and disinfect any non-disposable items using a diluted household bleach solution. Allow the disinfectant to sit on the item for 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Residents can also contact their local municipality or county to inquire about animal control services or private wildlife control services able to dispose of dead wildlife.

Sage advice, assuming anyone is listening.   

When You're in the Market For Bird Flu

 
Based on USDA Data - Graph created with Gemini

#19,058

Since the arrival of H5N1 in late 2021, the USDA has reported 64 outbreaks in live bird markets (LBMs) across 6 states (NY, NJ, PA, FL, VA, CA), with 10 outbreaks reported over the past 60 days.

While outbreaks in live bird markets continue to be reported to the USDA, they appear to be getting far less press coverage than they were a year ago. 

The link between live bird markets and the spread (and potential reassortment of) avian flu strains has been long established. LBMs typically bring together birds of varying species (chickens, ducks, geese, quail, and others) - often imported from different farms - which are housed in cramped quarters. 

A dozen years ago, in CDC: Risk Factors Involved With H7N9 Infection we looked at a case-control study conducted by an international group of scientists, including researchers from both the Chinese and the US CDC that concluded.

Exposures to poultry in markets were associated with A(H7N9) virus infection, even without poultry contact. China should consider permanently closing live poultry markets or aggressively pursuing control measures to prevent spread of this emerging pathogen. 

In 2016's Interventions in live poultry markets for the control of avian influenza: A systematic review Vittoria Offeddu , Benjamin J. Cowling, and J.S. Malik Peiris laid out the risks of avian influenza from live bird markets, reviewed some of the possible interventions, and concluded: 

Highlights

• Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) can infect humans. Bird-to-human transmission is particularly intense in live poultry markets.
• Periodic rest days, overnight depopulation or sale bans of certain species significantly reduce AIV-circulation in the markets.
• Market closure would lastingly reduce the risk of animal and human infection.

Admittedly, practices and hygienic standards vary greatly between countries, but last summer in J. Virology: Zoonotic Disease Risk at Traditional Food Markets (Minireview), we looked a review that cautioned that `. . . their sustainability and safety depend on integrating evidence-based strategies to mitigate zoonotic disease risks.'

While less common here than in Asia and the Middle East, the United States has hundreds of live bird markets, clustered primarily in the mid-Atlantic region (see Live Bird Markets of the Northeastern United States by Jarra F Jagne, DVM et al.)

Live bird markets serve mainly ethnic immigrant populations in large urban centers of Northeastern states. The markets are important in the epidemiology of avian influenza viruses (AIV) especially H5 and H7 strains that have zoonotic potential and an effect on trade with United States trading partners.

Until four years ago, HPAI H5 was not endemic in North America, which greatly reduced (but didn't completely eliminate) the risks of avian flu transmission in U.S.  live bird markets (see 2016's H5 Avian Flu Reported In NE U.S. LBMs (Live Bird Markets) - UPDATED).

Over the past few years the threat from H5N1 has grown markedly in the Western Hemisphere. So far, the strains of HPAI H5 in the United States have been generally milder in humans than those seen in Asia and the Middle East, but serious illnesses and deaths have occurred, and further increases in virulence are possible. 

 

Practices (like fur farming, drinking raw milk, letting your cat run free outdoors, or working at or visiting an LBM) - that were once presumably less dangerous  - are arguably more dangerous now. 

But we resist adapting to - or preparing for - new threats like avian flu because of the `Normalcy bias', the belief that tomorrow will be more-or-less like yesterday. We cling to the notion that all future changes will be small, incremental, and manageable. 

While that may bring comfort, and a sense of stability, it also brings risk. 

Whether HPAI H5 has the `right stuff' to spark a pandemic is unknown. But somewhere out there, the next pandemic virus is honing its skills.  And our laissez faire attitude towards pandemic prevention and preparedness will eventually prove costly. 

EID Journal: Vaccine-Like African Swine Fever Virus Strain in Domestic Pigs, Thailand, 2024

 

How ASF Spreads

#19,057

We've a bit of a medical mystery today courtesy of an early release research article published this week in the EID Journal; one that touches on several topics we've discussed previously. 

In a nutshell, researchers in Thailand recently tested two unvaccinated swine herds - hundreds of miles apart - which were showing signs of chronic infection. 

The pigs tested positive for ASF, and sequencing of field samples from each herd revealed a unique genomic signature; one that indicates they originated from a live attenuated vaccine-derived virus.

The problem being, there are no globally approved and licensed ASF vaccines on the market (and these pigs were never vaccinated). 

Vietnam is the only country permitting commercial use of an ASF vaccine (NAVETCO), and while based on a similar backbone ASF virus, it uses a different technique to attenuate the virus and contains an easily recognizable DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) marker.

In 2024, however,  we learned that a genetically modified live-attenuated African swine fever virus (ASFV-GUS-Vietnam) had been found circulating in Vietnamese swine. 

While the Vietnam strain's origin remains unknown, it was thought likely the result of unauthorized experimental use, a black-market vaccine, or a lab accident. And it is a much closer match to the strains recently detected in Thailand. 

How it - or a close relative to it - ended up in Thailand is unknown, although possibilities include the use of illicit or illegal vaccines, cross border trade of pigs or pork products, and/or the horizontal transmission of the virus. 

First some excerpts from the EID letter, after which I'll have a postscript.

Volume 32, Number 2—February 2026
Research Letter
Vaccine-Like African Swine Fever Virus Strain in Domestic Pigs, Thailand, 2024

Trong Tung Nguyen, Dhithya Venkateswaran, Anwesha Prakash, Quynh Anh Nguyen, Roypim Suntisukwattana, Anan Jongkaewwattana, Theeradej Thaweerattanasinp, Janya Saenboonrueng, Van Phan Le, and Dachrit Nilubol

Abstract

African swine fever virus genotype II is endemic in Thailand, typically causing acute disease. We investigated a vaccine-like strain, characterized by 6 multigene family gene deletions, from nonvaccinated herds. We found this strain was associated with chronic disease in pigs.


African swine fever (ASF) is a fatal hemorrhagic disease of pigs, caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV), a complex DNA virus in the Asfarviridae family (1). Researchers first identified ASF in Kenya in 1921, and subsequent reports identified 24 genotypes in Africa on the basis of nucleotide variations within the partial B646L gen (2,3). Reports in the medical literature confirm incidence of only ASFV genotype I and genotype II outside Africa.

In 2018, researchers identified ASFV genotype II in China (4), and it rapidly spread across Asia within a few months. Since then, the situation in Asia has shifted from an epidemic to an endemic stage, with the highly virulent genotype II strain causing peracute, acute, and subacute disease. Recent research suggests the emergence of more genetically diverse ASFV variants, including chronic disease–associated genotype I, highly virulent recombinants of genotypes I and II, and naturally and artificially attenuated strains in domestic pigs in China and Vietnam (5–7).

Thailand health authorities officially reported ASFV in Thailand in 2022 (8), and the strain was genetically identical to the strain first reported in China and Vietnam. Currently, ASF cases in Thailand involve patients with chronic symptoms and low mortality rates, suggesting the emergence of low-virulent strains. We conducted a survey of ASFV from recent outbreaks in Thailand, employing whole-genome sequencing to investigate the underlying causes.

Veterinary clinicians reported suspected disease in pigs from 2 herds located in the western region of Thailand, ≈500 miles apart, all displaying clinical signs related to chronic forms of ASF: chronic respiratory disease, joint swelling, slow weight gain, and sporadic deaths. Both herds housed only finishing pigs, operating on an all-in/all-out basis, and pigs were not vaccinated with any types of ASF vaccines.

(SNIP)

We detected ASFV in 18 of 25 samples; cycle threshold (Ct) values ranged from 19.82 to 33.83. We performed whole-genome sequencing on samples with the lowest Ct from each herd,(Ct 19.82 for sample TH1_24/RB and Ct 21.25 for sample TH2_24/RB).

        (SNIP)

Both genomes revealed the deletion of 6 genes in the multigene family (MGF) region (MGF 505-1R, MGF 360-12L, MGF 360-13L, MGF 360-14L, MGF 505-2R, and MGF 505-3R) and 2,348 bp of an Escherichia coli GusA gene (GUS) inserted at the deletion site (Figure 1).

This deletion pattern was like a live-attenuated vaccine strain (ASFV-G-ΔMGF) and a field-attenuated isolate (ASFV-GUS-Vietnam) described in previous studies (6,10). Phylogenetic analysis based on full-length genome indicated that the 2 isolates belonged to genotype II; however, the isolates were genetically distinct from the genotype II variant responsible for the first outbreak in Thailand (Figure 2). The 2 variants contained a total of 15 mutations throughout the genome, mostly silent and in noncoding regions, when compared with the Georgia 2007/1 strain. In addition, a 3-nucleotide insertion resulted in 1 additional amino acid in the MGF 110-10-L-MGF110-14L fusion protein.

In conclusion, we characterized a vaccine-like genotype II strain, similar to ASFV-G-ΔMGF, detected in finishing pigs unvaccinated against ASFV in Thailand. The spread of such vaccine-like strains with MGF deletions in this region is of concern, and the origin of the strains remains unknown. Further genomic surveillance and epidemiologic tracing would assist in clarifying the route of introduction. Possible explanations include the unauthorized use of live attenuated vaccines or cross-border movement of pigs and pork products.

Mr. Nguyen is a veterinarian and a graduate student at the Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. His research interests focus on molecular characterization and virology.

It was just two weeks ago, in Taiwan: Another Avian Flu `Incident', that we looked at Taiwan's latest seizure of shipments of illegal `bird flu' vaccines being smuggled in from China.  

In the past, we've seen reports of vaccines being manufactured in squalid and primitive conditions (see YouTube video) with absolutely no testing for purity, contents, or strength.

The trade in illegal and often counterfeit vaccines, drugs, and medical devices fuel a global multi-billion-dollar industry, and we've seen repeated warnings (see The Lancet: WHO Estimates That 50% Of Drugs For Sale Online Are Fake) of the harm they can cause.

While exact numbers are impossible to come by, there are estimates that hundreds of thousands of people are killed each year from fake or adulterated drugs, and they can also help generate antibiotic and antiviral resistance. 

While ASF doesn't pose a direct human health threat, we've seen the enormous economic and societal damage that it can spark (see Report: China To Release 40,000 Tons Of Frozen Pork Reserves Due To ASF Shortage), and the introduction of new variants is only likely to exacerbate the problem.  

While pandemics may be inevitable, self-inflicted wounds are often the hardest to deal with.   

Pathogens: Clinical and Laboratory Findings in Cats with Confirmed Avian Influenza A/H5N1 Virus Infection During the 2023 Outbreak in Poland

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Three summers ago, when domestic feline infection with HPAI H5N1 was still considered a fairly rare event, we followed an unusually widespread outbreak in both indoor and outdoor Polish cats (see Media Reports Of Unusual Cat Deaths In Poland).

Two weeks later a government announcement (see Poland's National Veterinary Institute Genome Sequence Analysis Of H5N1 Viruses Detected In Cats), stated early testing suggested that the feline H5N1 avian influenza viruses analyzed all originated from a single, unidentified source.

While it was quickly and vehemently denied by both the government and the nation's poultry industry, the media and some local experts raised Concerns Over The Possibility Of H5N1 In The Food Chain (i.e. poultry).

Poultry production in Poland is a multi-billion dollar industry, with 20% of their earnings coming from exports (mainly to EU nations).

While Polish authorities pushed back hard against any suggestion that the virus might be in locally produced (and sold) poultry, on July 13th, 2023 the ECDC reported:

Among the affected cats, 13 were kept indoors with only occasional access to outdoor areas (i.e. balconies or terraces), whereas four were free-ranging and reportedly had contact with wildfowl. Raw poultry meat and offal were fed to 13 of the affected cats, but the exact time of feeding is unknown and no causal relationship has been established

The following advice was offered:

It is recommended to avoid exposure of domestic cats and dogs, and in general carnivore pets, to dead or diseased animals (mammals and birds), and to avoid feeding domestic cats and dogs offal and raw meat from wild or kept birds in areas where mortality in gulls or other potentially HPAI virus-infected animals are reported. Possible measures are keeping dogs on a leash, and confining cats indoors in areas where extensive circulation of HPAI viruses in wild birds has been confirmed. 

In August of 2023, Eurosurveillance published Two Papers On HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus in cats, Poland, June to July 2023, which described several mutations (PB2-E627K and PB2-K526R) considered to be mammalian adaptation markers, and warned `Although the most likely source appears to be poultry meat, no such meat has been identified to date.'

Officially, commercial poultry was never linked to this outbreak. 

Last summer  we looked at a study (see Viruses: The Seroprevalence of Influenza A Virus Infections in Polish Cats During a Feline H5N1 Influenza Outbreak in 2023) that reviewed 835 cat serum samples submitted for routine bloodwork during June of 2023 from cats not exhibiting influenza symptoms.

Out of those 835 cat serum samples - 68 cats (8.1%) tested positive for influenza A virus antibodies in the primary screening (with 3 more suspected). Of those 68 IAV positive samples, 23 were positive for H5-specific antibodies.

This suggests that some cats can be infected with H5 and survive, and that cats are also susceptible to a much wider range of influenza A viruses. 

Since then we've seen pet-food related outbreaks in South Korea and in the United States, and today domestic cats are the most commonly reported (non-livestock) American mammal with H5N1. 

 Today we've got a highly technical report (of greatest interest to veterinarians) on the laboratory and clinical findings on 22 cats from the Polish outbreak of 2023.  Some of the highlight, however, include:

• These 22 cats came from different regions of Poland, and included both males and females, across a wide range of ages. 

• Many had outdoor access, but six were strictly indoor cats.​

• At least 13 of the 22 cats were known to eat raw meat, usually raw chicken or other poultry 

• The outbreak in cats happened currently with H5N1 reports in both poultry and wild birds in Poland, suggesting a link between infections in birds and spillover to cats.

The authors describe the infection as a `rapidly fatal respiratory and neurological disease', as most cats died or were euthanized within 2–3 days of the first signs, making the fatality rate 100%.

I've posted the abstract and a brief excerpt below. Those wanting a deeper dive can follow the link to read it in its entirety.  I'll have a brief postscript after the break.

Clinical and Laboratory Findings in Cats with Confirmed Avian Influenza A/H5N1 Virus Infection During the 2023 Outbreak in Poland: A Retrospective Case Series of 22 Cats
Dawid Jańczak1,*, Anna Golke2, Karol Szymański3, Ewelina Hallmann3, Katarzyna Pancer3, Aleksander Masny3, Tomasz Dzieciątkowski4 and Olga Szaluś-Jordanow5,*

Pathogens 2026, 15(2), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15020200 This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens
Published:10 February 2026

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A/H5N1 has emerged as a cause of severe disease in domestic cats, but clinical data from field outbreaks remain limited. We retrospectively reviewed medical records, laboratory results, and ancillary examinations from 22 domestic cats with RT-qPCR-confirmed A/H5N1 infection diagnosed in Poland in June 2023.

To the best of our knowledge, we report the first comprehensive retrospective case series from the 2023 Polish outbreak, combining 22 laboratory-confirmed cats with detailed clinical timelines and laboratory findings. For each cat, the temporal progression of clinical signs, hematology, serum biochemistry, and, when available, imaging findings were evaluated. Post-mortem examination data were not systematically available in this retrospective cohort.

Notably, six of these cats were strictly indoor cats that received raw poultry meat as part of their diet. Disease onset was acute, with fever, lethargy, and anorexia rapidly progressing to severe dyspnea and neurological signs, including ataxia, seizures, and paraplegia; case fatality was 100%, with a typical interval of ≤3 days from first signs to death or euthanasia. Hematologic changes were dominated by thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, and marked eosinopenia, consistent with a systemic inflammatory/stress leukogram. Biochemistry indicated marked tissue injury, with increased AST, LDH, and CK activities, whereas creatinine and urea remained largely within reference intervals, arguing against primary renal failure. Imaging supported the presence of interstitial to diffuse pneumonia. These data characterize the clinical and laboratory phenotypes of feline A/H5N1 infection and underscore its importance as a rapidly fatal respiratory and neurological disease with One Health implications.

(SNIP)

5. Conclusions

Our findings confirm that A/H5N1 infection in domestic cats is associated with highly fatal, rapidly progressive respiratory and neurological disease, in which pneumonia and acute respiratory failure are central features. The clinical pattern, observed acute onset, fever, and depression, followed within 1–3 days by severe dyspnea, radiographic or sonographic evidence of lung involvement, and frequent neurological signs, should alert veterinarians to the possibility of HPAI infection, especially in cats with outdoor access, exposure to raw poultry meat, or contact with wild birds or their feces. Early recognition, targeted diagnostics, and the implementation of appropriate biosafety measures are essential for potential zoonotic and epidemiological risks.

        (Continue . . . )

As we discussed last week in Several States Warn On Contact With Wild Birds/Mammals, there is a high level of H5N1 in the environment right now, which raises the risks to both humans and their pets.  

Outdoor cats, or those fed a died of raw meat, are obviously at highest risk.

But when H5N1 is circulating at high levels, any pet that suddenly falls ill with fever, rapidly develops breathing problems or shows neurological signs, should be regarded as a possible H5N1 case until proven otherwise. 

For more on pets and H5N1, you may wish to revisit:

A Brief History of Influenza A in Canines & Canadian Report On A Recent Fatal H5N1 Dog Infection

JAVMA: Companion Animals and H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: Cause for Concern? 

CDC Guidance on Bird Flu in Pets and Other Animals