Nine new outbreaks of African swine fever and one outbreak of avian influenza were confirmed in the Republic of Moldova during February 10-19, according to the National Food Safety Agency. Specialists took strict quarantine measures to limit the spread of diseases, IPN reports.

The new ASF outbreaks were identified in a number of districts of the country. Cases in domestic pigs were confirmed in the localities of Șuri and Drochia, Răzeni, Mereșeuca, Moșana, Cimișeni and Rotunda. Also, two outbreaks wild boars were detected, on the outskirts of Briceni town and in Geamăna village.

To prevent the spread of the disease, the authorities imposed strict restrictions in the affected areas. Quarantine rules were introduced and experts are monitoring the movement of animals and conducting screenings to detect other possible cases. At the same time, five ASF outbreaks were successfully eradicated.

Also, a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed in Pîrîta village of Dubăsari district, in wild birds. According to specialists, avian influenza poses a serious threat to the poultry sector, and the authorities started to take preventive measures to avoid transmission to domestic birds.

A number of 26 outbreaks of ASF in domestic pigs and two in wild boars were confirmed in Moldova so far this yar. A total of 144 pigs were slaughtered. Currently, there are 23 active outbreaks.

The National Food Safety Agency urges farmers and animal owners to strictly comply with biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of viruses. Avoiding contact between domestic and wild pigs, limiting animal transport and obeying hygiene rules are essential to protect farms.