BLOOD samples taken from hogs in some barangays in Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental have turned out negative for the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus, an official from the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Northern Mindanao said.
According to City Mayor Oscar Moreno, he received a text message from DA Regional Director Carlene Collado, stating that the samples from pigs in Barangays Dansolihon, Bayanga, Pagatpat and Lumbia in Cagayan de Oro; and Patag, Manticao, and Opol in Misamis Oriental have tested negative for the ASF virus.
Hogs in Lingating, Baungon in Bukidnon were also cleared for the virus.
"Pero dili gihapon pwede magkompyansa kay dangerous kaayo ning ASF, gani mas kulba man ni in terms of iyang pag spread," Moreno said.
African Swine Fever, according to the National Meat Inspection Service, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs, warthogs and boars. It causes pigs to have high fever and lose their appetite. It also causes hemorrhages in the skin and internal organs.
While ASF does not affect humans, the City Veterinary Office is reminding the public that a sick pig is not safe for human consumption.
Hog raisers, particularly the backyard raisers, are urged to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the entrance of infection into a pig farm and control the spread of infection within the farm and continue their vigilance amid the ASF threat.
Lechoneros and other meat establishments were also reminded to that pigs should only be slaughtered at the city slaughterhouse, otherwise, their products will be confiscated.