ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet) reported Wednesday a resurgence of African swine fever (ASF) in 38 of the city’s 98 barangays, raising concerns over the spread of the virus.
Dr. Arcadio Cavan, OCVet acting chief, said 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 during a press conference, describing the situation as alarming.
From Aug. 1 to Sept. 6, OCVet recorded 2,231 hog mortalities, affecting 601 swine raisers.
Field veterinary offices have intensified biosecurity measures in the affected areas to contain and prevent further spread of the virus.
The OCVet, in collaboration with local police, has also set up 24/7 border checkpoints on the city’s east and west coasts to inspect all incoming shipments of pork and pork products. Disinfectants were distributed to the veterinary fie
ld 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 said.
Cavan also expressed hope 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, where ASF cases have been high. (PNA)
Source: Philippines News agency