By Mae Singuay

The Bacolod City’s African Swine Fever (ASF) Task Force reminded a slaughterhouse that live pigs and other animals for slaughter are only allowed to be kept in a lairage for a maximum of two days.

“This is to avoid any contamination or infection from ASF, which has been a growing concern in our region,” said part of the letter from City Veterinary Officer Maria Agueda Trinidad-Dela Torre to AVM Bernardo Slaughterhouse.

“ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, as well as through contaminated feed, equipment and clothing,” the letter said.

“The disease has significant economic and health implications, and we must take all necessary precautions to prevent its spread,” it added.

The city government urged the slaughterhouse to strictly adhere to the two-day lairage limit and to implement proper biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of ASF transmission.

This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of their facilities, and proper waste management practices.

City Legal Officer Romeo Carlos Ting, Jr. said previously that animals stayed for about five days at the abattoir before they were slaughtered.

Meanwhile, there were no reported cholera cases on animals in the city./MS, WDJ