An outbreak of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) has led to 228 pig deaths in Arakan state, Myanmar. About 10 more are suffering from the disease.
According to the state’s Department of Livestock Breeding and Veterinary (DLBV), unfavorable weather conditions during the cold months have weakened the pigs’ immune system and spurred the development of diseases.
Citing results of laboratory tests, U Win Soe, Assistant Director of the state DLBV, said the pigs showed symptoms of yellowing eyes, lack of appetite, runny nose, constipation, and difficulty urinating.
The DLBV has sent staff to disinfect pig farms in Ponnagyun Township, where many pigs have died of the disease in recent weeks. They are urging farmers to regularly clean their pigs’ feeding troughs, as well as monitor the entry of pigs and people to their farms, to prevent the spread of PCV2.
Meanwhile, the agency has been telling consumers that the disease is not transmissible to humans and they will not be infected when consuming pork.
