Vietnam’s Thanh Hoa steps up ASF controls as outbreaks persist

Authorities in Vietnam’s Thanh Hoa province are intensifying efforts to contain African swine fever (ASF) as outbreaks continue to affect parts of the province. According to Vietnam.vn, local officials have accelerated vaccination, strengthened disease surveillance, and expanded biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of further spread among swine herds.

The province has recently completed its second livestock and poultry vaccination campaign, reaching 102.5% of the planned target. This November, communes and wards are focusing on eliminating remaining outbreaks while protecting livestock production from new disease incursions.

Stronger monitoring across affected areas

Provincial agricultural authorities have directed local governments to closely monitor swine herds and immediately report suspected cases. Rapid reporting allows veterinary officials to respond quickly and limit the impact of outbreaks.

Local authorities are also continuing large-scale sanitation efforts in areas considered vulnerable to infection. Farmers are being encouraged to regularly disinfect facilities and surrounding areas using approved disease control measures.

These efforts are intended to improve disease detection while reducing opportunities for virus transmission between farms.

Tightening biosecurity for herd recovery

Alongside outbreak control measures, provincial officials are emphasizing caution when rebuilding swine inventories. Restocking will only be permitted at farms that have completed required sanitation measures and meet provincial biosecurity standards.

Authorities have also warned producers to comply with livestock declaration requirements and disease control regulations. Officials plan to take action against cases that contribute to preventable disease outbreaks.

The province hopes these measures will support herd recovery while lowering the risk of recurring infections.

Outbreaks remain under close watch

Data from Thanh Hoa’s livestock and veterinary authorities show that ASF outbreaks have occurred this year in smallholder farms across 162 villages in 26 communes and wards. Control efforts have resulted in the culling of 8585 pigs with a combined weight exceeding 543 tons.

Despite progress, outbreaks have not yet been fully eliminated. As of November 6, authorities reported that 12 communes and wards had officially declared the end of outbreaks.

However, ASF cases in 14 communes and wards, covering 57 villages, had not yet passed the required 21-day disease-free period. Veterinary officials continue to work with local governments to monitor conditions and implement control measures where needed.

Supporting containment efforts

When new outbreaks emerge, agricultural authorities move quickly to isolate affected areas and remove infected animals. Public awareness campaigns have also been expanded to help farmers recognize symptoms and strengthen on-farm disease prevention practices.

To support these activities, provincial agencies have distributed 25,688 liters of disinfectant chemicals, 80 liters of insect-control chemicals, 2094 protective suits, and 2094 pairs of boots for local authorities.

With vaccination efforts advancing and biosecurity controls being reinforced, Thanh Hoa is seeking to reduce disease pressure and protect swine production. Authorities stress that continued vigilance by farmers and local governments will remain essential as control efforts continue.