Taipei: Taiwan has enacted stringent nationwide health measures in response to an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak, which was recently reported. The measures include a five-day ban on pig transportation and slaughtering, as part of the efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

According to Anadolu Agency, Taiwan's Ministry of Agriculture confirmed the ASF outbreak at a farm located in the Wuqi District of central Taichung city. In response, the ministry has implemented emergency restrictions starting at noon. The outbreak has resulted in the death of 117 pigs at the affected farm between October 10 and 20.

To further combat the spread of ASF, over 195 pigs have been culled, and authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the source of the infection. A control zone spanning 3 kilometers (1.8 miles), which includes two additional pig farms, has been established to contain any potential spread of the virus.

The Ministry has also prohibited the use of kitchen waste as pig feed and has mandated comprehensive disinfection procedures at meat markets and for transport vehicles. While ASF is lethal to pigs, it does not pose a threat to human health. Currently, there is no vaccine or cure available for the infection.