Quezon province on high alert as African Swine Fever outbreak worsens

By Nimfa Estrellado Pigs awaited processing in a holding area at the slaughterhouse. (Photo from iStock) LUCENA CITY, Quezon – A deepeni...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Pigs awaited processing in a holding area at the slaughterhouse. (Photo from iStock)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon – A deepening African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak has plunged Quezon's hog industry into crisis, leaving farmers facing devastating losses and an uncertain future. The Provincial Government on August 14, 2024 in a Facebook post raised the alarm as San Andres, Trece Martires, Lopez, Candelaria, Tiaong, and San Antonio remain classified as RED/INFECTED ZONES, indicating the continued presence of active ASF cases.

This persistent outbreak has not only led to a significant decline in hog populations but also threatens the province's food security and economic stability, impacting both farmers and consumers. The Provincial Veterinary Office has intensified its calls for strict biosecurity measures, emphasizing the importance of the "PAGPAPATAY NG NOSECRITO" protocol – the immediate reporting and culling of infected pigs.



Adding to the urgency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s advisers from the private sector called on Thursday for the expedited review and assessment of the MSD1 vaccine for African Swine Fever. The Private Sector Advisory Council's (PSAC) agriculture group emphasized the vaccine's potential to provide additional immunity for breeder populations, bolstering overall industry protection.

ASF, a highly contagious and fatal viral disease affecting pigs, poses no risk to human health but causes significant economic losses. Symptoms include high fever, loss of appetite, weakness, and hemorrhages. With no cure or vaccine currently available, prevention relies heavily on strict biosecurity and early detection.

The Provincial Government remains committed to combating ASF and calls on all stakeholders to join the fight. Hog raisers are encouraged to seek information or assistance from their Municipal Agriculturist or the Provincial Veterinary Office. The government is also exploring financial aid and other support mechanisms to help affected farmers recover from their losses.

This ongoing outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding the livestock industry. The Provincial Government urges everyone to play their part in preventing the further spread of this devastating disease, while also echoing the call for a swift vaccine review to offer hope to struggling farmers.