Business Intelligence (BI) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Tools in a Coordinated Strategy for Handling and Controlling Outbreaks of African Swine Fever

Giacomo Nalesso, Rachele Urbani, Clara Tassinato, Vittoria Tregnaghi, Matteo Mazzucato, Matteo Trolese, Monica Lorenzetto, Simone Rizzo, Paolo Mulatti, Guido Di Martino, Grazia Manca

African Swine Fever (ASF), a severe swine disease with potential zoonotic implications, historically limited to Sardinia in Italy since 1978, made its mainland debut in January 2022, raising concerns. The genotype found in northwest Italy (genotype II) differs from the Sardinian strain (genotype I). By January 2024, the epidemic had escalated, with 1435 wild boar cases and 21 domestic pig outbreaks reported [6]. The Epidemiology department of the "Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie" (IZSVe) responded with innovative tools. These included a comprehensive data warehouse, integrating farm, processing centre, and slaughterhouse data with Laboratory Information Management Systems and geospatial information. Additionally, an "African Swine Fever/Manager" (ASF-Manager) tracked outbreak specifics, while "IZSVe GIS African Swine Fever" (IZSVeGIS-ASF) provided real-time monitoring and support for control measures. IZSVeGIS-ASF facilitates spatial analysis and filtering of data, offering insights into animal demographics and premises characteristics. Currently exclusive to IZSVe's Epidemiology department, efforts are underway to expand access to local and regional veterinary services, fostering collaborative ASF management. Ongoing enhancements aim to optimize functionality and broaden utilization during ASF outbreaks.

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