Dong Thap: Joining Hands to Control African Swine Fever
(DTO) Amid the complex developments of African swine fever (ASF), the Dong Thap Provincial People's Committee has issued Official Dispatch No. 963/UBND-KT, requesting departments, sectors and localities to continue strengthening leadership, direction, and coordinated implementation of solutions to improve the effectiveness of state management in livestock production, veterinary work, and disease control across the province.
According to the directive, the Department of Agriculture and Environment plays the key role in advising and providing technical guidance. Functional forces work together to control the transport and trade of live pigs and pork products. Communication efforts are intensified to help the public clearly understand the danger of the disease. In particular, grassroots authorities are required to uphold the role of local leaders and mobilize the entire political system to participate in disease prevention and control, avoiding negligence or complacency.
According to the weekly report from the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sub-Department, the province’s total pig herd currently exceeds 460,900 animals, slightly higher than the same period last year. However, risks remain, as one outbreak was recorded in Tan Ho Co Commune during the week (March 26 - April 1), with 60 infected pigs that have already been culled. From December 11, 2025, to date, the province has recorded 51 outbreaks in 11 communes and wards, with 1,673 pigs infected and dead. Several outbreaks have not yet passed the required 21-day observation period and must continue to be closely monitored.
Field observations in areas previously affected by ASF show positive progress. In My Tinh An Commune, the outbreak in Trung Hoa Hamlet has officially passed 21 days without new cases. During this period, the locality culled 12 infected pigs and implemented synchronized measures including disinfection, sterilization, disease surveillance, and a communication campaign promoting proactive vaccination. Effective outbreak control demonstrates the strong coordination between local authorities, technical agencies, and residents.
Meanwhile, in Binh Ninh Commune, the disease situation is essentially under control, with no new outbreaks reported. Communication efforts have been carried out through loudspeaker systems and direct guidance at farms, helping significantly improve farmers’ awareness and disease-prevention practices. The commune plans to continue strict monitoring, control transport and slaughter activities, and stay ready to respond quickly to any new outbreaks.
Similarly, in Tan Ho Co Commune, where the latest outbreak occurred, local authorities reported swift zoning, culling, and implementation of required disease-control measures. Thanks to close coordination with veterinary agencies, the outbreak is now under control, with no new cases detected.
From the farmers’ perspective, disease-prevention awareness has greatly improved. Pham Tuong Linh (Hoa Thanh Hamlet, Binh Ninh Commune), who currently raises about 300 pigs, said his herd remains stable. In response to disease threats, he has strengthened cleaning and disinfection practices, tightened control of people and vehicles entering the farm, and ensured clean feed and water sources. He also closely monitors his pigs, isolates any suspected cases, and promptly informs veterinary authorities when unusual signs appear.
Overall, ASF prevention and control efforts in Dong Thap are being carried out decisively and consistently from the provincial to grassroots levels. The involvement of the entire political system, together with the proactive awareness of farmers, remains the key factor in disease control.
However, the risk of recurrence still exists, requiring localities to remain vigilant, continue implementing preventive measures, and work toward safe and sustainable livestock development.
By H. THONG
Translated by ANH DUC
