New ASF virus variant detected in pork at Taiwan borders

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Agriculture's Veterinary Research Institute announced on Monday (Dec. 18) the detection of a new variant of the African swine fever (ASF) virus in pork products brought by travelers from mainland China.

This recombinant strain, characterized by its high pathogenicity and transmissibility, has caused severe outbreaks in mainland China since its confirmation in 2022. Since the initial ASF outbreak in China in 2018, Taiwan has been testing illegally transported meat at its borders.

This marks the first time that both the Genotype II strain, prevalent in China since 2018, and its variant have been detected in crispy intestine products illegally imported from China.

Testing by the institute, conducted until Dec. 15, has examined 1,733 cases of illegal meat products, with 1,374 cases originating from China. Among these Chinese specimens, the positive detection rate for the ASF virus has risen to 12.4% (171 cases), up from 9.9% and 11.8% in previous years, indicating a rising trend.

As the Lunar New Year approaches, the Veterinary Research Institute urges citizens not to bring pork-containing meat products or processed items back to Taiwan. The institute also warns against illegal imports via mail or courier services to prevent the ASF virus from entering the country and safeguard Taiwan's pig farming industry.

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