Taiwanese animal health authorities have confirmed that the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus detected at a Taichung pig farm in late October is almost genetically identical to strains circulating in China and Vietnam. Lab sequencing shows a 99%+ match, indicating the virus likely originated from the same regional lineage now moving through Asia.
Although Taiwan has not faced widespread ASF on commercial farms, this event reinforces how quickly the virus can cross borders despite strict import controls and island geography.
Rapid Response, No Secondary Farm Cases
Following the discovery, more than 5,000 farms were inspected, and additional testing across the region has so far returned negative results. Environmental sampling on the affected site did show viral remnants, prompting large-scale cleanup and disinfection efforts, including assistance from military personnel.
Taiwan will need to maintain at least three months without new cases before it can begin the process of re-establishing ASF-free status.
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