As a precautionary measure, the Office of the City Veterinarian is presently coordinating with leading government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Health, Office of the City Agriculturist, City Health Office and other offices for updates.

To date, there is still no report of any pig infected with the strain virus.

Meanwhile, the public is advised that it is safe to eat pork provided the meat is duly certified, properly handled and thoroughly cooked. Bringing the food to a boiling point to make sure that the core of the meat reaches 70°C will kill the virus.

For meat and poultry, the public is advised to make sure that the juices are clear, not pink.

Food handlers and the public are likewise advised to follow the key rules of food safety as provided by the WHO:

• Keep clean
• Separate raw and cooked food
• Cook thoroughly
• Keep food at safe temperature
• Use safe water and select fresh food

The City Mayor's Office also advised the consumers to buy meat only from meat registered and licensed by the city government and meat having inspected and accompanied by meat inspection certificate by the meat inspectors.

Hog farmers and animal caretakers are also encouraged to report unusual sickness and deaths among pigs to the Office of the City Veterinarian.

"The Office regards this with great importance since this is an animal health issue," the mayor added.

Further Reading

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