KUCHING: The Sarawak Department of Veterinary Services (DVSS) has implemented stringent control measures following the detection of African Swine Fever (ASF) in pigs at a farm in Mongkos, Serian on Nov 29.
Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom assured that ASF remains contained in Mongkos, with other districts in Sarawak still free from the virus.
He reassured the public that ASF poses no risk to human health, as the virus is host-specific to pigs and does not affect other animals or humans.
“The virus is neither zoonotic nor transmissible to humans, but it is highly devastating to pig populations and has no vaccine or cure. Farmers must take strict measures to prevent its spread,” he said in a statement.
Dr Rundi also urged pig farmers to strengthen farm biosecurity by implementing measures such as vehicle and foot dips and securing farms with proper perimeter fencing.
Farmers are advised to control the movement of livestock, vehicles, and personnel in and out of farms.
While the transfer of live pigs without an official permit from the DVSS is strictly prohibited, he stressed that farmers are also reminded not to feed pigs kitchen or food waste unless it has been cooked for at least 30 minutes to eliminate potential pathogens.
He highlighted the importance of vigilance and quick action, asking farmers to monitor their pigs for clinical signs of ASF, including high mortality rates, high fever, respiratory distress, loss of appetite, skin redness or bruising, swollen joints and vomiting or diarrhoea.
In case of suspected cases, farmers must report immediately to the nearest veterinary office.
Addressing concerns about a viral video circulating online, Dr Rundi clarified that the footage was old and originated from outside Malaysia, urging the public not to spread misinformation.
With Christmas around the corner, he assured consumers that Sarawak’s pork supply remains adequate and safe.
“The pork products available in Sarawak’s markets are safe for consumption,” he added.
