The African Swine Fever (ASF) has penetrated Zamboanga City anew, affecting at least two barangays.
According to the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet), up to 40 pigs from the two barangays have tested positive for ASF as of July 26, 2024, based on results of the blood sampling conducted by the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory of the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Out of the 40 pigs, 20 are from four hog raisers in Barangay Lunzuran while the other 20 that died are from a hog raiser in Barangay Cabaluay.
Four other pigs from the two barangays were already depopulated.
Authorities also disinfected the areas affected to prevent the spread of the virus.
“Ang clinical signs man gud ana usually magluya man na sila, unya maghilanat, naay mga pula-pula sa ilang lawas mugawas, usahay mangawas pa gani ang dugo sa ilang ilong. Dayun pag naa na kana nga signs and symptoms mamatay na gayod sila,” OCVet Acting Head, Dr. Arcadio Cavan Jr., said.
The return of ASF in the city has worried some pork vendors.
“Siyempre, nabalaka ka kay maapektuhan ang imung Negosyo,” Rolly Regalado, a meat vendor, said.
The OCVet said the campaign against ASF will be intensified by beefing up border checkpoints in the city.
“Karun, gi-maintain man gayud namu na nga 24/7 ang amuang personahe sa border nato, kadtung mga walay shipping permit, walay veterinary health certificate back to origin gyud,” Cavan said.
ASF vaccines are also expected to arrive within this year.
“Medyo nalipay mi gamay kay duna nay announcement ang Department of Agriculture nga within this year magprocure na sila og ASF vaccine,” Cavan added.
It can be recalled that the ASF category in the city was downgraded from red to pink zone status in November 2023.