September 4, 2009
Singapore detects AH1N1 in live pig imports
Singapore's Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) has detected AH1N1 virus in some pigs imported into Singapore from Indonesia's Pulau Bulan.
But the AVA stressed that the pork available here is safe for consumption, because the H1N1 virus is not transmitted through the handling and consumption of pork and pork products including ham, bacon, sausages and canned pork.
AVA added it will step up its monitoring and inspection to ensure food safety.
It said it will take part in a comprehensive disease surveillance programme on the Pulau Bulan farm. This would be led by the Indonesian authority. The aim is to identify and isolate affected pig houses.
Restricted animal movement will be imposed to ensure only healthy pigs are exported to Singapore.
The AVA said this is in line with the World Organization for Animal Health's recommendation.
Singapore's import of 1,000 pigs daily from Pulau Bulan constitutes 20 percent of the total pork consumed.
