ASF Surveillance
CanSpotASF
CanSpotASF: Enhanced surveillance to protect the swine sector from the impacts of African Swine Fever.
African swine fever (ASF) can cause severe disease and mortality in swine. ASF is not present in Canada at this time, however outbreaks in other parts of the world and international movement of people and goods increases the risk that the disease could arrive in Canada. If ASF is introduced in any pig in Canada, borders will close, and trade of live pigs and pork products will stop.
The primary goal of CanSpotASF is early detection so that ASF can be quickly contained. This will minimize negative impacts. An overview of CanSpotASF is provided here: CanSpotASF One Page Overview
Risk-based early detection testing at approved laboratories is the first surveillance tool to be implemented as part of CanSpotASF, and has been in use since July 2021. It allows approved laboratories to conduct ASF testing on certain diagnostic cases when requested by a veterinarian or pathologist.
Risk based early detection condemnation testing at abattoirs is the second surveillance tool to be implemented as part of CanSpotASF, and was initiated in April 2022. It allows ASF testing on carcasses condemned under certain dispensation codes.
Technical information about approved laboratory testing can be found here: CanSpotASF Approved Laboratory Testing Technical Document
An overview for producers about risk-based laboratory testing can be found here: CanSpotASF Approved Laboratory - Description for Producers
Information for veterinarians about risk-based laboratory testing can be found here: CanSpotASF Approved Laboratory - Description for Veterinarians
Technical information about risk-based abattoir condemnation testing can be found here: CanSpotASF Abattoir Condemnation Testing - Technical Document
An overview for abattoir managers about risk-based condemnation testing can be found here: CanSpotASF Abattoir Condemnation Testing - Description for Plant Managers
Remember: ASF is a reportable disease, meaning veterinarians, producers, and farm staff are required to contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) immediately if the disease is suspected.
CanSpotASF Annual Report - 2021/22
CanSpotASF Annual Report - 2020/21