Inner Mongolia races to contain African swine fever

A new outbreak of African swine fever has been detected in Inner Mongolia autonomous region, according to an announcement by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Sept 17.

Eight hogs have been killed by the disease and 14 have been infected in Zhenglan Banner, Xiliin (Xilin) Gol League as of Sept 16, reported Xinhua News Agency.

The fever was detected on a farm that reported unexplained deaths among its livestock, according to local animal husbandry and veterinary offices.

On Sept 17, a report was delivered by China's Animal Disease Control and Prevention Center confirming that the unexplained deaths were due to African swine fever diagnosed by China Animal Health and Epidemiology Center.

It's the second case of the disease to be confirmed in the region. A previous case was reported on Sept 12 in Abga Banner –– the first case found in Inner Mongolia.

Following the confirmed cases, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs sent a team to the local area to investigate. And local authorities have now implemented an emergency response plan, with special measures put in place to cull infected hogs and quarantine areas with confirmed cases of the disease. 

Thanks to the tough measures put in place, the outbreak is now under control, according to local authorities. All live hogs and susceptible animals and products are prohibited from transporting in or out the blockade areas. 

African swine fever is a highly contagious, viral disease that affects hogs. It cannot be caught by humans or other species of animal.

China reported its first case of the disease in early August in northeastern Liaoning province, and later outbreaks were reported in several other provinces.

Epidemic prevention workers pictured in hazmat suits. [Photo/chinanews.com]