May 18, 2012
Guatemala hit by fresh swine fever outbreaks
Two outbreaks of classical swine fever have hit the South American nation of Guatemala.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) received an immediate notification on May 12, 2012. The outbreak was initially observed on March 23 and confirmed on May 9.
A total of 220 pigs showed signs of susceptibility, out of which 33 cases and 17 deaths were reported. No animals were destroyed or slaughtered.
Introduction of new live animals has been identified as the primary cause of the outbreaks.
The outbreaks were detected by veterinarians from the official services. The event is limited to these farms. No more cases have been observed. Epidemiological surveillance goes on at national level.
