OIE confirms further spread of ASF in Asia

African swine fever (ASF) has reached another Asian country. 

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) confirmed this week that seven cases have been reported in Laos, in south east Asia.

The outbreaks have resulted in the deaths of 973 animals, with a further 2,191 susceptible animals across the seven farms in the southern province of Saravane.

The source of the outbreaks is unknown and control measures, including movement restrictions, have been imposed.

After China reported its first case in August 2018, the virus has also spread to Mongolia, Hong Kong, Vietnam and North Korea.