Hong Kong Authorities Order Cull of 5,600 Pigs Following Detection of African Swine Fever

Outbreak of ASF at Lau Fau Shan farm prompts massive slaughter, but human health and pork supply remain unaffected; authorities continue investigations for virus source.

• Following the detection of the African swine fever at a pig farm in Lau Fau Shan, Yuen Long area, Hong Kong authorities ordered the culling of approximately 5,600 pigs in the herd.
• The virus, which is not a threat to humans but devastating to pig populations and the farming economy, was discovered after 37 pig samples were tested from the farm near the mainland China border.
• The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) stated that they will clean and disinfect the farm, continue surveillance on local pig farms and carry out tests if required.
• Assuring the public, the department spokesperson stated that this incident will not impact the general supply of live pigs or the functioning of local slaughterhouses.
• The AFCD is investigating the source of the virus, collaborating with international experts, and has notified the World Organisation for Animal Health. So far, no abnormalities have been reported from pig farms outside a 3km zone.

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