Hunters who come in contact with wild pigs, dead or alive, in a country affected with African swine fever (ASF) could be spreading the disease further. While ASF is not present in Canadian wild pigs, it can spread directly to pigs through contact with contaminated clothing, hunting equipment or food.
Help reduce the risk of spreading ASF or introducing it to Canada by following these precautions:
- if you are hunting abroad in an area where ASF may be present, know how to spot the signs of ASF
- properly dispose of garbage (such as food scraps) to prevent wild pigs from scavenging infected waste
- wash with hot water and detergent or dispose of all clothing and footwear worn while hunting in a country that is infected with ASF before re-entering Canada
- do not visit a farm or come into contact with pigs in Canada within 14 days if you have been hunting abroad in a country that is affected by ASF
- declare all animal and food products at the border: neglecting to do so could result in monetary penalties of up to $1300
- if you are in Canada and notice that a wild pig is showing signs of ASF, report it immediately to a CFIA district veterinarian at your local Animal Health Office.
Refer to our frequently asked questions about ASF to inform yourself about this animal disease.
Awareness toolkit
Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of animal diseases. Do your part by sharing this toolkit with your network. You'll find helpful videos, fact sheets, posters and images to help spread the word, not the animal disease.
African swine fever poses a significant risk to the Canadian pork industry and the Canadian economy.
Awareness tools from third parties
- Hunters: Don't be the carrier of a deadly pig disease – PDF (239 kb)
- World Organisation for Animal Health awareness tools
- Video: African swine fever – How to stay one step ahead