Taiwan imposes strict health measures after African swine fever outbreak

By Anadolu staff

Taiwan on Wednesday imposed strict nationwide health measures after an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak was reported.

The ban, running for five days, includes pig transportation and slaughtering, according to TVBS News.

Taiwan's Ministry of Agriculture confirmed the outbreak in a farm at the Wuqi District of the central Taichung city, and implemented emergency restrictions from noon in response.

The virus killed 117 pigs at the farm between Oct. 10 and 20.

Over 195 pigs have been culled, and authorities have launched an investigation to identify the source of the infection.

A 3-kilometer (1.8 miles) control zone, including two additional pig farms to contain potential spread, was also established.

The ministry additionally prohibited the usage of kitchen waste as pig feed and mandated comprehensive disinfection at meat markets and transport vehicles.

ASF is deadly to pigs, and does not affect humans.

There is currently no vaccine or cure for the infection.