Blood sampling in eight villages in Socorro, Surigao del Norte commenced on Monday to fully assess the extent of the African swine fever (ASF) infection in the area. This action follows the recent confirmation of ASF in samples taken from four villages last week, prompting local government units and authorities to implement measures to prevent the virus’s spread.
“The agriculture and veterinary offices in Surigao del Norte have completed the massive cleaning and disinfection operations in the four initially affected barangays,” Dr. Ashley Mae Nono, ASF coordinator of the Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region, stated in an interview on Monday.
Nono emphasized that the extensive cleanup efforts include the proper disposal of carcasses of dead hogs to mitigate further virus transmission.
Authorities are also maintaining heightened alert at entry and exit points in Socorro to ensure that no live hogs or pork-based food products enter or leave the area.
“We will determine if depopulation is needed after the results of the continuing blood sampling activities are available,” Nono added, highlighting the importance of the ongoing testing in managing the ASF situation.