Today, we’re wrapping up our myth busters series by taking a closer look at the global impact of African swine fever (ASF), what an outbreak could mean for the United States, and how you can help keep this disease out of the country.
Myth #1: ASF has been detected in the United States.
ASF has never been found in the United States. However, it is present in the nearby Caribbean nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This proximity — combined with significant U.S.-Caribbean tourist travel — raises the risk of ASF entering the United States.
Myth #2: The global impact of ASF is decreasing.
ASF remains a serious and widespread global threat. Outbreaks continue in affected countries, and the disease has entered new regions and reappeared in places that had previously eliminated it. According to the World Organisation for Animal Health, more than 71 countries and territories have reported over 1.2 million cases of ASF in domestic and wild pigs and losses of more than 2.4 million domestic pigs since 2022.
Myth #3: ASF is not a serious threat to the U.S. economy.
If ASF spreads to the United States, it would lead to the death of potentially millions of pigs, cause significant job losses, collapse trade markets, and cost billions of dollars to control and eradicate. As the second-largest pork exporter in the world, the United States could face an estimated $74 billion in losses over 10 years.
Myth #4: There is nothing I can do to prevent ASF.
Everyone plays a critical role in keeping ASF out of the United States.
When traveling abroad, don’t bring back food or products containing pork. Avoid contact with pigs while overseas. If you visit zoos, farms, or other areas with pigs, wash your hands and thoroughly clean clothing and shoes before returning.
When you return to the United States, declare meats, animals, and animal products to Customs and Border Protection and report any contact with livestock or wild pigs. Wait at least five days before visiting any farms or fairs with pigs.
If you raise or work with pigs, practice strong biosecurity: keep pigs away from wildlife, buy pigs and feed from trusted sources, limit visitors to animal areas, use dedicated clothing and shoes, and immediately report signs of illness.
Thanks for following our myth busters series! You can prevent the spread of ASF — be sure to share this information with others.