Laos steps up efforts to control African Swine Fever outbreak

Laos is intensifying efforts to contain African Swine Fever (ASF) after the disease spread to seven provinces and 91 districts, affecting more than 14,000 pigs.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has introduced measures to prevent and control further transmission.

Bouahong Khamha, director-general of the ministry’s Department of Livestock and Fisheries, disclosed this at a press conference on Thursday.

He said the outbreak had caused the loss of 14,002 pigs and financial losses estimated at more than 58.8 billion Lao kip, equivalent to about $2.5 million.

The affected areas include Phongsaly, Xayaboury, Xaysomboun, Huaphan, Vientiane Capital, Oudomxay and Luang Prabang.

Bouahong said 10,041 pigs died from the disease, while 3,961 were culled under approved protocols to prevent further spread.

He said authorities were closely monitoring the situation and implementing measures for early detection, prevention and containment.

According to him, the outbreak is gradually declining but has not yet been fully brought under control.

He urged authorities, farmers, businesses and the public to remain vigilant and comply with official disease-control measures.