Taiwan authorities investigate online rumors surrounding African swine fever

台灣當局調查有關非洲豬瘟的網路謠言

Taiwan authorities look into rumors about dead pig found on Kinmen beach


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Taiwan’s Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (BAPHIQ) said they are looking into false information and rumors spread online relating to two pigs which washed up on beaches in Kinmen County, reported CNA.

BAPHIQ said that risks surrounding the spread of disease are not a joke, and that if possible, legal proceedings will be taken against those caught breaking the law.

Two dead pigs washed up on the shores of Kinmen County last week, with one testing positive for African swine fever (ASF). A total of 10 farms within a 5 kilometer radius of the site where the swine-flue infected dead pig was found were tested for ASF, with all results returning negative readings, reported CNA.

The pigs are believed to have come from China, after inspection of the animals and analysis of tidal patterns took place. Rumors posted online however, claim that the hogs were planted by the Taiwanese government.

The BAPHIQ categorically rejected these claims in a press release, and condemned those who post misinformation online.

The BAPHIQ said that these online rumors hamper disease control efforts, and suggested that those posting misinformation online have violated the Statute for Prevention and Control of Infectious Animal Disease.