BY MANUEL ODENY AND ANTONINE AWUOR

Migori county pig farmers are counting losses after a deadly viral disease was reported in the area with several stock reported dead.

On June 17, the Migori county government reported an outbreak of highly contagious African Swine Fever Outbreak in Awendo sub-county in the county and announced an immediate quarantine of pigs to spread further spread of the virus.

Dr. Robi Jackline, the Awendo sub-County Veterinary Officer in a notice said all pigs and pig-related products are to be detained within the sub-county immediately.

“All pigs and their products are to remain within Awendo Sub-County until further notice, this includes strict controls on the movement of animals, vehicles, and persons to prevent further spread,” she said.

She said Migori is doing everything to stop further spread and are working closely with farmers and other stakeholders to respond on time in case of any new cases of deaths of pigs.

Among measures is that pigs cannot be moved in or out of Awendo without written permission with vehicles and people leaving should be dis-infected.

“Any pigs suspected to have died from the disease must be buried at least four feet deep or burned,” she added.

ASF is a serious disease that affects pigs. It is not harmful to humans but spreads quickly among pigs and has no cure.

Samples from affected pigs have already been collected, and lab results are expected soon

For farmers who rely on pigs for their income, it’s a heavy blow.

“I had plans to sell two pigs this month, but now I’m worried,” said one farmer in Ranen.