The project has progressed beyond the current state of the art in several key areas. Significant advances have been achieved in vaccine development, including the generation of novel replication-limited vaccine prototypes using complementary approaches. At the same time, new insights into immune responses have been obtained through the identification of previously uncharacterised African swine fever virus (ASFV) genes involved in antiviral defence, as well as the characterisation of antigens with potential cross-protective capacity across different ASFV genotypes.
Important progress has also been made in diagnostic innovation, with the development of a prototype DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) test, accompanied by a validated protocol for serum inactivation to enable safe handling and international exchange of samples. In parallel, extensive epidemiological data from multiple countries have been collected and processed, supporting a deeper understanding of disease dynamics. Engagement with stakeholders has been strengthened through the establishment of an international expert network and advisory board, while communication and dissemination activities have resulted in a clear project identity and an active digital presence.
The results achieved so far position the project to deliver substantial impact. From a scientific perspective, the development of replication-limited ASFV vaccine candidates and the identification of cross-protective antigens represent important advances in the field. Economically, progress towards safe vaccines and accompanying diagnostic tools provides a foundation for reducing the significant financial burden associated with ASF outbreaks. Societally, early and continuous stakeholder engagement, combined with transparent communication, is helping to build acceptance of vaccination strategies and facilitate future policy uptake. Environmentally, the advancement of vaccine-based prevention approaches has the potential to reduce reliance on mass culling practices and mitigate their associated impacts.
More specifically, several vaccine candidates are currently undergoing laboratory evaluation, providing a strong basis for the development of safer ASF vaccines. Novel ASFV immune modulators and cross-protective antigen candidates have been identified, contributing to improved knowledge that can support future vaccine evaluation frameworks. A prototype DIVA diagnostic test has been successfully developed and validated, together with a serum inactivation protocol that enables safe international collaboration. In addition, validated epidemiological datasets have been generated, and modelling activities and field studies are underway to better understand transmission patterns. Stakeholder engagement activities have mobilised a broad international community through structured collaboration mechanisms, while dissemination efforts, including a project website, social media outreach, media coverage, and participation in international conferences, have ensured visibility and knowledge sharing.
