Asfiviruses, also known as African swine fever viruses, refer to a group of large, complex, and highly contagious DNA viruses that primarily infect swine, including domestic pigs and wild boars. They belong to the Asfarviridae family, which is the sole member of the Asfivirus genus within the Asfivirus family. Asfiviruses are responsible for causing African swine fever (ASF), a severe and often deadly disease that affects pigs.
These viruses possess a complex genome composed of a double-stranded DNA molecule. They are enveloped by a lipid membrane derived from the host cell, enclosing their capsid, which contains the viral DNA. The morphology of asfiviruses resembles a large and spherical structure, typically measuring between 175 and 215 nanometers in diameter.
Asfiviruses can replicate in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm of the infected cell. They are highly resistant and capable of surviving in various environmental conditions, contributing to their ability to spread within and between pig populations. The primary mode of transmission of asfiviruses is through direct contact with contaminated animals, especially through the exchange of bodily fluids, such as blood, nasal secretions, and feces.
African swine fever viruses have a significant impact on the swine industry due to the high mortality rates they cause in affected pigs and the absence of an effective vaccine or treatment. Outbreaks of ASF can result in devastating economic losses, trade limitations, and significant disruptions to the pork production chain. Therefore, prevention, early detection, and rapid control measures are crucial in minimizing the impact of asfiviruses on swine populations.
