Statistics show that over the past six months, African swine fever has affected more than 2,250 households across 406 villages and hamlets in 30 communes and wards. More than 9,500 pigs, with a combined weight exceeding 500 tons, have been culled. These figures not only reflect the severity of the disease but also highlight the significant economic losses and direct impact on the livelihoods of livestock farmers.

African swine fever currently has no specific treatment. Once an outbreak occurs, losses are almost inevitable. Therefore, disease prevention remains the most important solution. Only through proactive prevention and early containment can the livestock sector maintain stable development, minimize risks, and ensure a reliable food supply for the market.

In response to the complex developments of the disease, the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment has directed specialized agencies to work closely with local authorities in implementing comprehensive disease prevention and control measures in accordance with regulations. Surveillance of livestock herds has been strengthened, while new outbreaks are being detected early, isolated, and handled promptly. At the same time, sanitation, disinfection, and decontamination activities have been carried out regularly, and communication campaigns promoting biosecure farming practices have been intensified.

However, practical experience has shown that the efforts of authorities can only be fully effective with the active participation of livestock farmers. The awareness and proactive actions of each farming household constitute the strongest line of defense against disease outbreaks. Many households have already shifted toward biosecure production methods by regularly cleaning livestock facilities, monitoring feed and water sources, restricting access to farming areas, and closely observing the health of their animals on a daily basis. These positive changes should continue to be expanded and replicated.

The agricultural sector also advises farmers to strictly comply with disease prevention measures, particularly the principle of the “Five no’s”: No concealing disease outbreaks, no trading or transporting sick or dead pigs; No slaughtering or consuming meat from sick or dead pigs; No disposing of pig carcasses into the environment; No feeding untreated food waste to pigs.

These are not only mandatory regulations but also responsibilities toward the community, helping prevent the disease from spreading on a larger scale.

In addition, farmers are encouraged to closely manage breeding stock, feed, and water sources; regularly clean and disinfect livestock facilities; monitor animal health daily; and promptly notify veterinary authorities when unusual symptoms are detected. Reporting disease outbreaks early does not increase losses; on the contrary, it enables rapid containment and response, limits transmission, and reduces damage for the entire community.

Among disease prevention measures, vaccination remains the most proactive, effective, and sustainable solution. Using funding allocated for agricultural development in 2026, the Department of Agriculture and Environment has supplied sufficient vaccines for livestock and poultry disease prevention. Mass vaccination campaigns help establish active immunity within animal populations, build herd immunity, reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, and provide a solid foundation for the stable development of the livestock industry.

The goal of sustainable livestock development depends not only on the size of animal herds but also on the ability to control diseases effectively. Therefore, preventing and controlling African swine fever is no longer solely the responsibility of the agricultural sector or veterinary services; it is a shared responsibility of local authorities, specialized agencies, and every livestock farming household.

When each citizen raises awareness, strictly follows biosecurity measures, actively participates in vaccination programs, and cooperates closely with relevant authorities, Điện Biên’s livestock sector will gradually overcome disease challenges and develop in a safe, efficient, and sustainable manner, making a positive contribution to the province’s agricultural economic growth.