By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Dec 14: The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MoH) is closely monitoring the ongoing situation involving African Swine Fever (ASF) and Japanese encephalitis (JE) to ensure public health and safety, according to Deputy Minister of Health Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.
Speaking at an appreciation ceremony for SMK Taman Tunku’s 173 Form Five students at the Eastwood Golf and Country Club on Saturday, Lukanisman highlighted MoH’s readiness to collaborate with other agencies and provide public health advice.
Lukanisman clarified that the responsibility for managing ASF falls under the Veterinary Department, but MoH is committed to offering advisory support to affected groups, including pig farmers and consumers.
“We urge pig breeders and buyers to exercise caution, especially when purchasing pigs or pork from unverified sources,” he said.
He added that MoH is closely monitoring ASF cases in Serian to prevent potential spread and advised heightened vigilance during the festive season when pork consumption increases.
On the issue of JE, which is transmitted by the Culex mosquito, MoH is actively conducting vaccination campaigns within a two-kilometre radius of affected areas.
“In Mukah, particularly in Kampung Tanjung, our teams are on the ground to vaccinate and ensure preventive measures are in place,” Lukanisman stated.
He emphasised the importance of community cooperation in maintaining cleanliness, particularly around stagnant water, to reduce mosquito breeding grounds—a strategy similar to the one employed for dengue control.
MoH also called for heightened public awareness and adherence to guidelines to prevent ASF and JE from escalating into larger outbreaks. — DayakDaily
