Breakout of African Swine Fever at Penang Farms: 50 Pigs Dead in Crisis for Local Pork Industry
Source: Penang Today
The Penang Veterinary Services Department (JPVPP) has confirmed that three pig farms in Kampung Selamat have been affected by African Swine Fever (ASF), following laboratory results from the Northern Zone Veterinary Laboratory. Dr Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab, the department’s director, reported that two of the three impacted farms experienced a high mortality rate among the livestock, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease to neighbouring farms.
“Our team has been on the ground at the pig farms in Kampung Selamat since yesterday to conduct checks, as well as implement control and close monitoring measures to ensure the ASF outbreak can be contained swiftly and effectively,” Dr Saira Banu said in a statement. She added that two farms have so far reported the deaths of 50 pigs, with many more displaying ASF symptoms. There are 63 pig farms in the Kampung Selamat area, involving approximately 120,000 pigs.
As a control measure, the JPVPP has issued a Notice of Restriction and Prohibition of Animal Movement under Section 18 of the Animals Act 1953 (Act 647) to the infected farms. Movement restrictions on pigs have also been implemented, limiting transport to only designated abattoirs to prevent the disease from spreading to other areas or districts.
Dr Saira Banu explained that the department is sampling pigs showing clinical signs at nearby farms for early detection, strengthening biosecurity monitoring, and advising all farmers to report any unusual livestock deaths immediately. She stressed that although ASF is not contagious to humans, it has a significant impact on the pig farming industry, mainly through animal movement restrictions and economic losses for farmers.
“JPVPP advises all pig farmers to strengthen biosecurity measures on their farms, including preventing outsiders or unsanitised vehicles into their premises,” she said. “In addition, any sudden deaths or signs of disease among pigs should be immediately reported to JPVPP.” She further stated that additional information or inquiries can be directed to the Seberang Perai Utara District Veterinary Services Office or directly to JPVPP.
