30 Penang pig farms hit by African swine fever

The Penang Veterinary Services Department (JPVPP) today confirmed that 30 commercial pig farms in the state have been affected by African swine fever (ASF).

In a statement, the department said 19 of them were in the Seberang Perai Selatan district, two in Seberang Perai Tengah, six in Seberang Perai Utara and three in Barat Daya.

A total of 68,659 pigs have been infected with the disease. 

"To control and prevent the spread of ASF, JPVPP is implementing a stamping-out policy through the culling of pigs in infected farms or those suspected to be infected in the infection zone, in accordance with the Malaysian Veterinary Protocol for ASF disease.

"This policy is implemented with the aim of eliminating the virus so that farmers can start breeding their animals again, safely and free from the ASF disease, thus ensuring a sufficient supply of pork in the country," it said.

It said the infection rate appeared to be slowing since the culling of infected pigs from Jan 5. 

"The public is advised not to be alarmed by ASF because this disease is not a zoonotic disease and only infects pigs and wild boar," it added.