July 7, 2023

Philippines' local trials of ASF vaccine making progress

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr announced that initial local trials of an African swine fever (ASF) vaccine have yielded promising results, offering hope for its availability in the country to combat the deadly animal disease, Malay Mail reported.

Authorities worldwide have been conducting trials on several vaccines in a race to halt the spread of the highly contagious ASF, which poses a severe threat to pig farms and the global pork industry valued at US$250 billion. One vaccine candidate is nearing approval in Vietnam.

President Marcos, who also serves as the head of the Philippines' agriculture ministry, stated that preliminary clinical trials have demonstrated that the vaccine generates sufficient antibodies and is safe for use so far. Further testing is required before its widespread use can be approved.

In the Philippines, ASF remains a major concern for hog raisers, with millions of swine already culled since the first local outbreak was detected in 2019. Outbreaks have occurred in 66 out of the country's 81 provinces, with active cases reported in 13 provinces as of last month, according to the country's Department of Agriculture.

The consequent decline in domestic pork supply has led the Philippines to increase meat imports to compensate for the shortage, putting additional pressure on inflation, which remains outside the central bank's target range.

President Marcos, speaking at a livestock trade event, mentioned that the second phase of the vaccine trial is currently underway but cautioned against complacency.

In addition to progress in the procurement of avian flu vaccines, President Marcos highlighted that the government has urged manufacturers to register their products with the country's Food and Drug Administration. This step aims to enhance the country's preparedness against avian flu outbreaks.

-         Malay Mail