Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. has admitted that it is “very hard to control” the spread of the African swine fever (ASF) virus in the province.
The virus, which causes hemorrhagic fever in pigs that almost always ends in death, is present in 78 barangays in 18 towns of the province.
The figures are based on the Jan. 26 report released by the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian.
Of the affected towns, 13 are under the red or infected zone classification. These are Dingle, Barotac Nuevo, Oton, San Miguel, Leganes, New Lucena, Alimodian, Santa Barbara, Mina, Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Banate, and Janiuay.
The towns of Zarraga, Batad, San Dionisio, Badiangan, and Dueñas are classified as pink or buffer zones.
Defensor said ASF is a highly contagious hemorrhagic viral disease and its spread is hard to control.
According to the governor, the conduct of checkpoints and the implementation of biosecurity measures do not ensure 100 percent protection.
There is currently no vaccine or cure for the disease. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected animals or their remains.IMT
