Swine flu spread from illegally imported pigs into Mizoram: Dr K. Beichhua

More then 400 swines have already died across State

AIZAWL: It is believed that the prevailing swine flu in the State spread through illegally imported pigs from outside the State, said Mizoram Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Minister Dr K. Beichhua. The prevailing swine flu has claimed more than 400 pigs in the State.

Meanwhile, the government on Thursday declared two localities, Edenthar Veng and Armed Veng, in Aizawl, as "infected areas" after unknown pig disease was reported in the two localities. The movement of pigs in and outside the two localities and the killing of infected pigs for commercial purposes is prohibited in the two neighbourhoods.

The Minister also convened a meeting with officials, representatives of NGOs and pig rearers to review the outbreak of swine flu in Lungsen Village within Lunglei district. He said that the government's ban on the import of pigs and other pig products from other States and foreign countries is on since last year. He added that African Swine Fever (AFS) is highly suspected to be the cause of the death of pigs at Lungsen village.

Beichhuah reiterated that the government is making effort to contain the outbreak at the earliest. He added that the government will also take necessary measures to ensure that a VO (Veterinary Officer) is posted at Lungsen.

A Veterinary department official stated that at least 320 pigs have died due to an unconfirmed disease highly suspected to be ASF since March 21. Besides, 115 pigs also died due to unknown disease in four villages in the Mamit district, he said. He added the toll could increase. (Agencies)

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