December 2, 2024

 

Bohol, Philippines reports new ASF cases after seven-month lull

The province of Bohol, Philippines has recorded new cases of African swine fever (ASF), marking the first resurgence of the hog disease in seven months.

 

The infections were confirmed in Barangay San Vicente, San Miguel town, despite local government measures to prevent its spread.

 

According to Romulo Garcia, administrative officer of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, the recent cases prompted urgent containment efforts. Of the 22 swine that died on November 22, 2024, three were confirmed positive for ASF. This outbreak comes after the province's last reported ASF cases in April.

 

Authorities immediately implemented culling operations within a 100m radius of the affected area. On November 27, at least 33 swine were culled and buried to minimise the risk of further contamination. Garcia expressed hope that the outbreak could be contained swiftly.

 

In Purok 6 of Barangay San Vicente, 45-year-old resident Amelia Cajes was among those directly impacted. She surrendered her 10 swine, including a pregnant sow, to assist in halting the spread of the disease. Cajes and other swine raisers attended a barangay assembly on November 26 to learn more about ASF and the measures needed to contain it.

 

Affected households are set to receive financial assistance of PHP 10,000 (US$170) each from the Bohol provincial government and the Department of Agriculture.

 

San Vicente village chair Arnel Pocpoc noted that many of the 306 households in the community engage in backyard swine raising. He urged residents to cooperate with containment measures.

 

Following the detection of ASF in San Vicente, authorities have intensified surveillance and blood collection in neighbouring villages, including Bayongan, Poblacion, and Cambangay Norte. Quarantine protocols and checkpoints have been established to restrict the movement of pigs and pork products. Information and education campaigns are also underway to prevent further outbreaks.

 

To protect Bohol's PHP 6 billion (US$102 million) livestock industry, the entry of pork and pork products from provinces with active ASF cases remains prohibited.

 

-      Philippine Daily Inquirer