Northern Samar Gears Up Against African Swine Fever (ASF) Threat with Provincial Meeting

The Provincial Government of Northern Samar, thru the Provincial Veterinary Office, and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 (DARFO8) has invited representatives from Municipal Agriculture Offices in the province to conduct an Orientation and Consultative Meeting on African Swine Fever (ASF) today, September 6, at the Governor's Conference Room, New Capitol, Catarman.

Dr. Ernistine Ibañez, regional ASF coordinator, gave an update on the status and the government's measures on the possible entry of swine fever in the country, while Dr. Zaldy Villanobos, Veterinarian III/ Regulatory Division, also from DARFO8, discussed how the regional office can assist the province. The government is currently implementing strategies, dubbed as "BABES" approach, to prevent a local outbreak. “BABES” stands for Ban pork imports, Avoid swill feeding, Block entry at international ports, Educate our people and Submit samples

Though there is still no reported case of ASF in the province, Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Jose Luis Acompañado warned his local counterparts that it is possible for the local swine industry in Northern Samar to be affected. Representing Gov. Edwin Ongchuan, Vice Governor Gary Lavin, on behalf of the Provincial Government and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, expressed his support for a possible resolution, ordinance or executive order adopting an ASF Preparedness and Contingency Plan, and the creation of an ASF Provincial Task Force.

The ASF is a fatal animal disease affecting pigs and wild boars with up to 100 percent case fatality rate. This viral disease only affects pigs and not humans. Signs of illness among pigs include high fever, decreased appetite, and weakness. The skin may be reddened, blotchy, or have blackened lesions, especially on the ears, tail, and lower legs.