The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) conducts regular surveys to curb the outbreak of animal diseases such as Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). South Africa is one of the few countries that are free from PRRS and surveys are conducted on a regular basis to scientifically prove our free status. Past outbreaks of PRRS have been successfully eradicated by continuous collaborative action between DAFF and the industry.
The recent outbreak of PRRS in some parts of the world has raised alarms about the introduction of the disease to countries that are PRRS free. The department will restrict imports of raw pork as part as precautionary measures, unless it is processed at facilities approved by the animal health authorities.
This syndrome, also known as blue ear pig disease, is a highly infectious viral disease of pigs and causes reproductive failure in breeding stock and respiratory tract illness in young pigs.
Meanwhile, the department consulted the South African pork industry, animal production consultants and the association of meat importers and exporters for solutions to prevent introduction of PRRS into the country.
Further a field, other countries that are free of PRRS have invested in research that claims that the risk in semi processed pork products such as ham is negligible.
Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
26 November 2009
Source: Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (http://www.daff.gov.za/)
