March 11, 2023

African swine fever detected in 14 regions in the Philippines

The Philippines' Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) said African swine fever (ASF) cases in the country have been rising, with cases detected in 14 regions, The Philippine Star reported.

Data from BAI showed that only the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) remains ASF-free.

The BAI said 54 provinces reported ASF cases, up from 12 the previous month.

The BAI declared a swine disease outbreak in Cebu after discovering ASF in 58 out of 149 blood samples taken from swine in Carcar City,

The BAI urged swine farmers and other stakeholders to notify their local agriculture or veterinary offices of any unusual swine mortality or illness.

The agency urged the public to exercise restraint and work with authorities to implement ASF control protocols, adding that the immediate control and prevention of the spread of ASF are top priorities for all involved agencies.

-      The Philippine Star