Development and application of whole-herd-sampling, qPCR-based-testing, and precision-removal methods to eliminate...

Since the first ASFV case was reported in China in 2018, troditional control stategies involving whole-herd culling upon detection of ASFV positivity have proved unwieldy because of its high production intensity and complex trade network. To provide an alternative to conventional stamping-out methods, we developed a novel approach termed "Whole-herd-Sampling, qPCR-based-Testing, and Precision-Removal" method. This approach involves whole herd sampling and qPCR testing to determine the status of ASFV in herds, followed by the precision removal of identified infected sows. By applying these techniques, we successfully controlled ASF and eliminated the virus from 4 large swine herds between 2019 and 2020. The time to negative herd (TTNH) was 19, 28, 14, and 1 day from farm 1 to 4, respectively. Retention rates of pigs from farm 1 to farm 4 were 69.7%, 65%, 99.4%, and 99.72%, respectively. We propose that this innovative method would be a good alternative to the conventional stamping-out strategies and greatly facilitate the control and eradication of ASFV both in China and worldwide.