ASF proyects

PROCINORTE’s Commitment to Preventing and Controlling Animal Diseases

PROCINORTE is committed to fighting animal diseases. A notable example of this is its efforts to combat African Swine Fever. Between 2022-2024 PROCINORTE, in collaboration with USDA/ARS, has supported different research projects by international scientists.

Learn more about the 11 funded collaborative projects from Mexico, Brazil, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.

Molecular characterization of Classical Swine Fever virus isolates in Ecuador: The road to eradication

Collaborators: Agrocalidad, Ecuador, and CFIA-NCFAD, Canada

The project advances CSFV eradication by analyzing 373 samples via RT-PCR, conducting 70 viral isolations, and acquiring equipment for phylogenetic analysis. These efforts enhance understanding of CSFV epidemiology in Ecuador, supporting targeted control and eradication strategies.

Capacity building for ASF diagnostics in México: Generation of reagents required for serological assays

Collaborators: INIFAP, Mexico, and CFIA-NCFAD, Canada

The project enhances diagnostic capabilities by cloning and expressing ASF diagnostic proteins, generating recombinant proteins, and providing molecular techniques training. Collaboration with Canadian counterparts improved local diagnostics, enabling faster, more accurate ASF detection and response.

Development of a quantitative operational risk assessment tool to evaluate the risk of introduction of African Swine Fever to Mexico

Collaborators: SENASICA, Mexico, and CADMS UC Davis, US

This project aims to develop a web platform for ASF risk analysis in Mexico, focusing on risk pathways, livestock movement, and GIS-based spatial analysis. It enhances SENASICA’s capabilities with interactive tools and institutional data integration.

To understand the disease status of feral pigs and the role they can play in the dissemination of African swine fever in Saint Lucia

Collaborators: Saint Lucia Ministry of Agriculture and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (St Kitts and Nevis)

The objective of this project is to geolocate feral pigs, collect fecal samples, and analyze data to assess ASF risk. Three expeditions, motion detector cameras, and baseline data guide surveillance and control measures for feral pig populations.

Evaluation of the risk of introduction and enhancement of surveillance and control strategies for African swine fever (ASF) in Trinidad and Tobago

Collaborators: University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, and UC Davis, United States

The project enhances ASF surveillance through risk analysis tools, stakeholder consultations, and a dashboard for risk estimation. These efforts improve ASF risk assessment, supporting timely, effective outbreak responses and management strategies.

Risk assessment of re-entry of Classical Swine Fever (CSF) into Trinidad and Tobago and the development of an early warning system to detect CSF incursions in Trinidad and Tobago

Collaborators: University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, and UC Davis, United States

The project investigates CSF risk pathways, implements an early warning system, and trains stakeholders in disease recognition. These actions improve surveillance, reduce CSF re-entry risks, and enable early detection and outbreak control.

Bridging Knowledge Gap in ASF Diagnostics in the Caribbean Region (Grenada)

Collaborators: St. George's University, Grenada, California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) Lab System (host)

The project enhances ASF diagnostic and research capabilities through training, tool evaluation, and recommendations. Achievements include multiplex PCR evaluation and stakeholder engagement, advancing regional ASF outbreak preparedness and knowledge transfer.

Improving Preparedness for ASF in the Caribbean (Saint Kitts and Nevis)

Collaborators: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (St Kitts and Nevis), UC Davis (US), and the University of West Indies (Trinidad and Tobago)

The project strengthens ASF preparedness through participatory methods, including a multistakeholder workshop, surveys on ASF knowledge and practices, and a literature review. These efforts enhance risk communication, stakeholder engagement, and proactive disease management strategies.

Serological and Molecular Surveillance for Classical Swine Fever in Costa Rica

Collaborators: Costa Rica

This project strengthens Costa Rica’s Classical Swine Fever (CSF) surveillance to maintain its CSF-free status. It enhances monitoring in high-risk areas, improving diagnostics with PCR testing of 2,500 samples. Upgraded detection and response efforts protect the pork industry and food security.

Risk Assessment of Swine Swill Feeding in the Dominican Republic

Collaborators: Dominican Republic

This initiative tackles swill feeding in the Dominican Republic, a major African Swine Fever (ASF) risk. It maps waste supply chains, assesses risks, and engages stakeholders to improve awareness and biosecurity. Findings will guide the best practices and policies to reduce ASF transmission.

Improving Preparedness for ASF in the Caribbean: Outbreak Response in an Island Context

Collaborators: Caribbean

This project enhances ASF outbreak response in the Caribbean by addressing communication gaps and misinformation. Regional workshops, veterinary training, and updated response manuals strengthen coordination. Improved detection and preparedness will help contain ASF, reducing economic and food security impacts.