Taiwan Battles First African Swine Fever Outbreak with Swift Action

Taiwan has reported its first occurrences of African swine fever, prompting swift action to control a potential outbreak. The government culled 195 pigs, banned pig movement, and is isolating the virus strain. Authorities suspect illegal pork imports as the source and stress prevention measures.

Taiwan reported its inaugural cases of African swine fever on Wednesday, leading to the culling of 195 pigs at the affected farm. The government swiftly enacted a ban on pig movement and slaughter across the island as part of its containment strategy.

The Ministry of Agriculture revealed that dead pigs from a farm in Taichung city tested positive for the virus on Tuesday. In response, animal protection and quarantine teams conducted preventive culling, cleaned and disinfected the farm, and created a 3-km control zone around the epicenter.

Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that despite the two-week process to isolate the virus strain, immediate stringent measures are crucial to prevent escalation. Authorities suspect the virus entered Taiwan through illegal pork imports. Previous outbreaks in Asia have led to massive culling, highlighting the threat posed by this disease.

(With inputs from agencies.)