DA eyes possible int’l collaboration on trial of vaccine vs ASF

May 26, 2020

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is eyeing possible international collaboration in the development and field trial of a vaccine against the African Swine Fever (ASF.

"We would like to express our optimism on the development of African Swine Fever (ASF) vaccine. Recently, a new study by the Pirbright Institute in the United Kingdom has shown that 100 percent of pigs immunized with a vaccine developed at the institute were protected from a lethal dose of the ASF virus," DA Secretary William Dar said.

"The DA is looking forward to collaborate and take part in the field trials of the prospective ASF vaccine developed once available," he added.

Dar also expressed belief the collaboration and participation in field trials "will provide first-hand information on the efficacy of the vaccine against the strain present in the Philippines."

According to the DA, the ASF has brought about the death of over 280,000 pigs in the Philippines, resulting in a massive loss  in trade.

"The unavailability of a commercial vaccine has called for stricter biosecurity measures and culling of susceptible animals to curb the proliferation of this deadly virus," said Dar.

"However, if the said field trials will be successful, we will be able to save not only the lives of the pigs but the livelihood of our swine raisers as well," he added.

Dar said the DA "will be closely collaborating with the research institutions on this matter."

"DA will continue to provide its steadfast support to the Philippine livestock sector in the midst of the ASF virus," he said. Robina Asido/DMS