600 Pigs Culled to Prevent ASF Outbreak
RUSSIA - Around 600 pigs will be culled in southern Russia to prevent the spread of African swine fever (ASF) virus, which was detected in Stavropol Region last week, a spokesperson for the regional governor reported today.
The outbreak was reported on October 15 in the village of Gorkaya Balka at a farm containing around 460 pigs. Later tests confirmed the deaths were caused by the African swine fever virus, which has killed around 120 animals.
"The animals are being culled at a pig farm where deaths were caused by African swine fever, and at a neighboring farm to prevent contagion," he said.
According to RIA Novosti, an investigation has been launched into possible infringements of veterinary regulations, which could carry up to two years in prison.
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