Head of the Department of Animal and Plant Quarantine Lin Nien-nung stated at a press conference that full genome sequencing of the samples is still underway at the Veterinary Research Institute.
“Our strict border control measures against ASF apply not only to mainland China but also to all countries where outbreaks have been recorded,” Lin emphasized.
According to the Taichung City Government, 28 pigs from the affected farm were sold to buyers last week. Authorities traced 23 pigs to other farms in Taichung, four to Changhua County, and one to Chiayi. Officials continue to track where the resulting pork products were distributed.
Lin explained that all pigs undergo strict hygiene inspections before and after slaughter, adding that no signs typical of ASF—such as internal bleeding or other abnormalities—were detected.
Local authorities in Taichung have faced criticism after reports revealed that samples for testing were collected 10 days after the first pig deaths, which were reported on October 10.
City officials said they initially did not collect samples because no ASF symptoms were observed. Only after receiving another report a week later, on October 20, were samples taken for testing.
Minister of Agriculture Chen Junne-jih criticized the delay, stressing that samples should be collected immediately after reports of abnormal mortality, regardless of the suspected cause.
“When unusually high animal mortality is observed, authorities must act swiftly,” the minister said.
He noted that if about 3% of pigs on a farm (with 200–500 head) die within a short period, the incident qualifies as “abnormal” and must be investigated by local veterinary authorities.
Chen also emphasized that it is illegal to obstruct official veterinary staff from collecting samples, warning that such actions could be deemed a violation of animal health regulations.
PigUA.info based on materials from taipeitimes.com