May 28, 2009
Backyard piggeries quarantined in Philippine province
Strict quarantine has been imposed in backyard piggeries in San Simon and parts of Mexico town, in Pampanga province, as a growing number of pigs are dying from what is believed to be porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS).
Provincial veterinarians, however, said there is no cause for alarm, as the PRRS is different from swine flu although it increases the hogs' risk to the latter disease.
In a report, the provincial information office cited cases of unusual deaths and the increase in the number of sick pigs in San Simon and in a neighbouring district in Mexico town.
According to the report, at least 112 pigs of 31 backyard hog raisers have already been affected.
Records show that PRRS is estimated to cost the US hog industry US$600 million in losses yearly.
Governor Ed Panlilio said the affected piggeries have been placed under quarantine, adding that the sick animals are now being treated and that none is being sold.
