KPL
Authorities and residents have been urged to closely monitor pig populations following the deaths of an entire herd of domestic pigs in Phialat Village, Sangthong District, Vientiane.
The incident was reported on September 3 after local residents discovered that all pigs in the herd had died from unknown causes. According to preliminary information from the owners, African swine fever (ASF) is suspected, although the cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed.
The suspected cases come amid reports of pig deaths in other parts of Laos. Xayabouly Province had previously issued a notice restricting the sale and consumption of pork in several districts as authorities responded to suspected disease transmission.
Reports indicate that 1,949 pigs in affected areas have either died or been culled. Of these, 1,294 died, while 655 were culled as a disease-control measure to help prevent further transmission.
Authorities have also reported finding a significant number of dead wild boars in the Nam Phouy National Protected Area, raising concerns about the possible spread of the disease among wild pig populations.
Residents and pig farmers are advised to remain vigilant, monitor their animals closely and promptly report unusual illness or sudden deaths to the relevant veterinary and livestock authorities.
ASF does not infect humans, but outbreaks can cause serious economic losses to farmers and the pork industry because of the disease’s high mortality rate among pigs.
KPL
