Zambo still ASF-free

DESPITE THE pandemic, the local government continues its intensified campaign not only against the spread of Covid-19, but also to prevent the entry of the African Swine Fever (ASF) in Zamboanga City.

OCVet staffs guard the border in Zamboanga City.

The ASF virus is transmitted by direct contact, ingestion of garbage or swill feeds containing unprocessed infected pig meat or pig meat products, ticks and biting flies, and contaminated premises, vehicles, equipment and clothing.

While not a human health threat, the ASF is capable of annihilating the entire swine industry. As of yet, no vaccine or treatment exists to combat the virus. But stringent importation policies, early detection and strict biosecurity measures are being carried out to ensure Zamboanga City remains ASF-free.

Last year, Mayor Beng Climaco issued Executive Order No. BC 596-2020 which underscores the need for the immediate adaption of the National African Swine Fever prevention program to protect Zamboanga from the dreaded animal disease and protect the swine industry and stakeholders.

She ordered checkpoints in entry and exit points in Zamboanga to ensure that no infected hogs and its pork products slip past the city.

And OCVet personnel continue to inspect and conduct disinfection of trucks transporting live pigs and other animals to Zamboanga to protect the hog population against the ASF.

Strict protocols are also being observed to monitor and regulate the entry of hog and pork products here as a measure against the contagious animal disease.

Climaco said the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVet) also regularly conducts animal deworming, anti-rabies vaccination and even vitamin supplementation for employees under the OCVet to ensure their health and welfare.

The OCVet has so far injected anti-rabies shots to nearly 300 dogs and cats and provided deworming agents to cattle and poultry, including goats and pigs in different villages.

It also conducted meat inspection, visited poultry raisers and held dialogues with stakeholders, especially on ASF. (Zamboanga Post)

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