Thirteen Towns in Isabela Province Impacted by African Swine Fever Outbreak
CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela – An outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) has hit thirteen towns in Isabela province. Dr. Belina Barboza, the provincial veterinary officer, confirmed the latest case of ASF in Barangay San Juan, Cabagan during an interview with a local radio station.
According to Barboza, “Fourteen pigs in the barangay died simultaneously due to ASF and were immediately buried by a backyard raiser.”
The affected towns include Angadanan, Aurora, Alicia, Echague, Luna, Mallig, Quirino, San Isidro, Gamu, Ramon, Roxas, and Burgos.
In response to the outbreak, hog raisers have been urged to strictly adhere to the minimum biosecurity measures against ASF. They are also advised to ensure their animals are provided with proper nutrition and given necessary supplements or vitamins.
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs. It causes high fever, loss of appetite, and internal bleeding, often leading to death in affected animals. ASF does not pose a direct threat to human health, but it can have devastating consequences for the swine industry.
Local authorities are working to contain the spread of the disease by taking measures such as quarantine, culling infected animals, and implementing strict biosecurity protocols. Efforts are also being made to educate hog raisers about the importance of preventive measures to prevent further outbreaks.
