Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) announced emergency measures after a suspected African swine fever outbreak appeared on a central Taiwan farm. Consequently, African swine fever prompted authorities to act immediately to prevent nationwide spread.
The outbreak occurred in Wuqi District, Taichung, where 117 of roughly 300 pigs died between October 10 and 20. Initially, veterinarians treated the pigs for pneumonia; however, rising fatalities led authorities to test for African swine fever. On Tuesday, the Veterinary Research Institute confirmed ASF nucleic acid in the samples.
In response, the MOA banned pig transport and slaughter nationwide for five days. Additionally, it prohibited the use of kitchen waste as pig feed. Moreover, farmers transporting pigs had to cull and test animals at slaughterhouses or meat markets. Meanwhile, officials disinfected these facilities and all transport vehicles immediately.
Furthermore, the MOA expanded farm inspections, suspended pork exports, and advised using frozen pork to meet domestic demand. Authorities also created a three-kilometer control zone around the infected farm, covering two nearby farms under strict monitoring.
Early Wednesday, farm workers culled 195 pigs and buried the carcasses. Subsequently, they disinfected the farm thoroughly to remove any traces of the virus. Authorities continue testing to confirm a full African swine fever outbreak according to World Organization for Animal Health guidelines.
Additionally, the MOA and Customs Administration warned the public not to purchase pork online or bring foreign pork into Taiwan. Therefore, customs officers will increase inspections to prevent virus entry.
Taiwan maintained ASF-free status earlier this year, along with freedom from classical swine fever and foot-and-mouth disease, according to WOAH. However, the suspected outbreak threatens Taiwan’s pig industry and requires careful management to prevent economic losses.
Officials stressed that early containment and strict hygiene protocols remain critical. They also encouraged farmers to report unusual pig deaths immediately and follow biosecurity measures.
Overall, the African swine fever scare shows Taiwan remains vulnerable to animal disease outbreaks despite previous success in maintaining strict health standards. Accordingly, authorities continue monitoring the situation and will adjust emergency measures as needed.
