August 8, 2005

China officially informs OIE of pig disease outbreak

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) said China has officially informed it of the deadly pig disease that has killed over 30 people so far.

According to China's report to the OIE, the pig bacteria, Streptococcus suis, was officially confirmed by laboratory diagnosis on July 25 this year.

A total of 640 pigs have fallen sick with the disease, while tests conducted by the Chinese government have ruled out bird flu and the Nipah virus, the OIE said.

China told the OIE that controls for animal quarantine have been set up, along with screening procedures and the possible use of vaccination.

Meanwhile, the OIE would continue to keep close contact with the Chinese government and closely monitor the situation.