Why has Keningau reverted to an ASF red zone?

Question

Accepted Answer

Keningau Reverts to ASF Red Zone Due to Recurrence of African Swine Flu in Village Pigs

Keningau has been reclassified as an African Swine Flu (ASF) red zone following the detection of the disease among village pigs. The recurrence was confirmed on January 7, affecting 12 out of 20 pigs in a local farmer's herd. This development necessitates stringent control measures by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) to prevent further spread.
Detection of ASF in Village Herd

On January 7, a case of African Swine Flu was identified in a village pig farmer's herd in Keningau. Field investigations revealed that the affected pigs displayed typical clinical signs including reduced appetite, lethargy, nasal discharge, and ultimately, death. Samples collected from these pigs were subsequently tested and confirmed positive for the ASF virus pathogen.
Implementation of Control Measures

Following the confirmation, the DVS Keningau swiftly implemented rapid control actions in accordance with Section 45(2) of the Animal Enactment 2015. These measures include imposing movement restrictions on pigs and pig products originating from the Keningau district. The department is also enhancing surveillance across Sabah and advising farmers to reinforce biosecurity protocols on their farms and pens to contain the disease.
Biosecurity and Farmer Advisories

Further preventative measures include prohibiting farmers from feeding uncooked kitchen waste to pigs and from visiting infected pens or farms. Farmers are also advised against purchasing live pigs or pork from unverified sources. The ASF virus spreads through direct contact with infected pigs or indirectly via contaminated equipment or handlers, underscoring the importance of these biosecurity advisories.
Assurance of Pork Supply and Public Health

Despite the recurrence, the ministry, through the DVS, has assured that the pork supply for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations remains sufficient, with sources secured from local farms in Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Tawau. It is also emphasised that ASF exclusively affects pigs and is not a zoonotic disease, meaning it does not pose a risk to human health, and the public need not be concerned about contracting it.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why has Keningau reverted to an ASF red zone?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends