African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious animal disease caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV). It is listed by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) as an animal disease subject to statutory reporting. ASFV, a large, enveloped double-stranded DNA virus with high genomic complexity, exhibits a case fatality rate of up to 100%, posing a significant threat to the global pig industry and food safety. To date, the absence of a safe commercial ASFV vaccine primarily stems from challenges in identifying immunogenic viral antigens, insufficient characterization of ASFV pathogenesis, and limited understanding of the virus’s immune evasion mechanisms. Here, we review the pathogenic characteristics (morphological structure, clinical symptoms, and epidemiological characteristics), molecular biological characteristics, and infection mechanism of ASFV, as well as the immune response mechanism, vaccine research, and the latest information on ASFV in other areas. This review will be in favour of understanding the current state of knowledge of ASF and developing effective vaccines to control this disease.

Veterinary Teaching Hospitals (VTHs) represent complex environments that integrate clinical care, education, and research, posing unique biosecurity challenges. In response to increasing scrutiny from accreditation bodies such as the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), there is a growing need for rigorous, evidence-based biosecurity protocols. This review critically analyses internationally recognised protocols – including those of the University of Liège, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and leading small animal institutions – as well as scientific literature addressing best practices in infection control. We identify key components of successful biosecurity programmes, including risk-based patient classification systems, standardised hygiene and disinfection protocols, and the mandatory training for staff and students. Particular emphasis is placed on the difficulties encountered in teaching contexts, where high human–animal interaction increases the risk of zoonoses and nosocomial infections. A comprehensive set of recommendations is presented to support the development of scalable and institutionally adapted biosecurity protocols, with the aim of ensuring the safety of patients, staff, students, and visitors in VTHs while meeting international accreditation standards.