July 27, 2018

Philippines safe from swine flu outbreak

The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) issued a statement this week that there are no official reports on the swine flu outbreak in the Philippines.
 

"Allegations circulating on social media and text messages about swine influenza in the country are not true," Anthony Bucad, BAI veterinarian and one of the agency's designated spokespersons on the issue, assured.

In addition, Bucad also refuted the rumours on social media posts and text messages that stated 40 pigs are dying daily due to the swine influenza.

While social media and text messages are warning the public to avoid consuming pork in the meantime, the bureau, on the other hand, has persisted in urging people to continue supporting local pork and other meat products.

"Meat that passed the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) scrutiny is safe to eat," Bucad said.

Both the NMIS and BAI are agencies under the Department of Agriculture, which consist laboratories, agencies and linkages with swine raisers to ensure sufficient and safe supply of pork in the country.