First detection of African swine fever virus genotype X and serogroup 7 in symptomatic pigs in the Democratic Republic of Congo

African swine fever is a highly contagious and severe haemorrhagic viral disease of domestic pigs. The analysis of variable regions of African swine fever virus genome led to more genotypic and serotypic information about circulating strains. The present study aimed at investigating the genetic diversity of African swine fever virus strains in symptomatic pigs in South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

African swine fever virus genotype X and serogroup 7 was identified in the African swine fever disease outbreaks in South Kivu province of DRC in 2018–2019. This represents the first report of African swine fever virus genotype X in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This finding emphasizes the need for improved coordination of the control of African swine fever.