Background Banner

Hog Disease Reportedly Found In South China

Published: May 08, 2007

China

Hog Disease Reportedly Found In South China

Media in Hong Kong are reporting that a mysterious pig disease, with symptoms such as loss of appetite, high fever and hemorrhaging, has spread to farms in two Guangdong cities, Silao and Yunfu, since mid-April. Reports today (May 8) indicate the epidemic, which is thought to have started shortly after Chinese New Year celebrations, has perhaps infected 1,300 pigs and killed more than 300, but no human infections have been reported. Hong Kong media indicates local authorities have begun to sanitize tainted farms and markets. There has been little or no coverage of the outbreak from government-controlled media within China.

According to the deputy chairman of the Pork Traders' General Association, Hong Kong had imported some hogs from Yunfu, but discontinued purchases after an outbreak of swine fever in that area earlier. Indications are that pork consumption in the impacted area, however, remains steady.

China

Hog Disease Reportedly Found In South China

Media in Hong Kong are reporting that a mysterious pig disease, with symptoms such as loss of appetite, high fever and hemorrhaging, has spread to farms in two Guangdong cities, Silao and Yunfu, since mid-April. Reports today (May 8) indicate the epidemic, which is thought to have started shortly after Chinese New Year celebrations, has perhaps infected 1,300 pigs and killed more than 300, but no human infections have been reported. Hong Kong media indicates local authorities have begun to sanitize tainted farms and markets. There has been little or no coverage of the outbreak from government-controlled media within China.

According to the deputy chairman of the Pork Traders' General Association, Hong Kong had imported some hogs from Yunfu, but discontinued purchases after an outbreak of swine fever in that area earlier. Indications are that pork consumption in the impacted area, however, remains steady.