BANGKOK, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Thai Department of Disease Control (DDC) on Saturday told the media that Thailand has yet found evidences of African Swine Fever (ASF).
However, the DDC warned all Thai border provinces to stay vigilant as evidences of ASF in pigs had been found in Thailand's neighboring countries.
Dr Asadang Ruayajin, deputy director-general of the DDC, said ASF only affects pigs and boars, and there have been no reports of the disease being transferred to other animals or humans so far.
"I would like to warn all that if you eat un-cooked meat from infected pigs, there is a possibility that you may become the carrier of the virus, which can be contagious," said Dr Asadang.
"You must protect yourself by wearing a mask, gloves, safety glasses and protective clothing when you touch or cull infected pigs. Wash your hands after touching infected pigs and have your clothes washed. Also, make sure you only eat cooked pork that is hot and clean because it may be infected by bacteria that may cause sudden hearing loss, foodborne illnesses and diarrhoea."
In 2018 and 2019, ASF had been found in 27 countries and regions, 12 of which were European, five African and 10 Asian, but there is still no sign of the disease in Thailand, said Dr Asadang.
The DDC has been coordinating with the Department of Health Service Support to disseminate information on disease prevention and monitoring via the Village Health Volunteers network.
