The veterinary authority has sent an Immediate Notification dated 25 October to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

The report describes how FMD antibodies were found in 15 pigs tested at a farm of 223 animals at Erlun Township in Yun-Lin province in the west of Taiwan.

The source of the virus is unknown.

According to the report, during the routine active FMD serological surveillance, NSP antibodies were detected on one pig farm. The investigation showed that all pigs on the index farm were clinically healthy. Fifteen serum and throat swab samples for serological tests and virus isolation were collected and sent to the national laboratory (Animal Health Research Institute). The laboratory confirmed positive results with NSP antibody, whereas the results of virus isolation and RT-PCR were all negative. The serotype O was identified by using FMD ELISA kit.

The monitoring and epidemiological investigation of the index farm and those surrounding farms that keep cloven-hoofed animals (a total of 71 pig farms, and two goat farms within a three-kilometre radius of the index farm) have been done and no clinical or epidemiological evidence of infection was found.

Control measures currently being applied include:

• Quarantine
• Movement control inside the country
• Screening
• Disinfection of infected premises/establishment(s)
• No vaccination
• No treatment of affected animals

Further Reading

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