September 16, 2024

ASF resurges in Zamboanga city, Philippines

The Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet) in Zamboanga city, Philippines, has announced a resurgence of African swine fever (ASF) in 38 of the 98 barangays (administrative districts) in Zamboanga, raising concerns about the virus's spread in the area, Philippine News Agency reported.

Dr Arcadio Cavan, acting chief of OCVet, disclosed that nine of the affected barangays are in the first congressional district, while 29 are in the second district.

"Most of these barangays have previously been hit by the ASF virus, indicating a resurgence or recurrence of the disease," Cavan said.

From August 1 to September 6, OCVet recorded 2,231 swine mortalities, impacting 601 swine raisers in the city. In response, field veterinary offices have intensified biosecurity measures in the affected areas to prevent further spread of the virus.

To strengthen these containment efforts, the OCVet has partnered with local police to establish 24/7 border checkpoints on the east and west coasts of the city. These checkpoints inspect all incoming shipments of pork and pork products. Disinfectants have also been distributed to veterinary field offices for free use by affected swine raisers.

"We are culling and disinfecting affected farms, and we've advised swine raisers to properly dispose of infected hogs," Cavan added.

Cavan expressed optimism that the ongoing ASF vaccine trials in Lobo, Batangas, would yield positive results. The Department of Agriculture has procured 150 doses of the ASF vaccine for testing in the town, which has experienced high ASF case numbers.

-      Philippine News Agency