February 28, 2025

Village in Xaysomboun province, Laos, struck by ASF

Vanghai village in Thathom district, Xaysomboun province, Laos, has been classified as a red zone following an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF).

According to a district order issued on February 21, although the virus poses no threat to humans, district authorities have banned the processing and sale of infected pork to prevent further spread.

Authorities also called for coordinated efforts to contain and eliminate the outbreak.

To prevent wider transmission, district authorities have designated Vanghai village in Thathom district as a red zone, while Pakyong village also in Thathom district and Thasy village in Borikhan district, Borikhamxay province, have been classified as yellow zones.

Additionally, 24 villages in Thathom district have been identified as surveillance zones. In these areas, any pigs displaying symptoms such as a high fever of 42 degrees Celsius, dark red spots on the ears and skin, discoloured patches on the lower abdomen, or deaths must be reported immediately.

The District Agriculture and Forestry Office, in coordination with the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Department, will carry out inspections and collect samples for analysis to prevent further losses.

Authorities have urged farmers to strengthen biosecurity measures and comply with movement restrictions to ensure rapid control of the outbreak.

- The Vientiane Times / ANN