By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 13: Malaysia remains free of the Streptococcus suis bacterial infection linked to pigs, says the Veterinary Services Department (DVS).
In a statement, the department noted concerns following recent reports in Thai media outlets about human deaths caused by the infection originating from pigs in Thailand.
“This disease, also known as ‘deafness fever’ in humans, has triggered a public health warning in Thailand.
“However, as of now, Malaysia remains free of any pig-related disease outbreak caused by the Streptococcus suis bacterium,” it said.
Streptococcus suis causes streptococcosis in pigs, especially among piglets post-weaning.
This disease is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans through open wounds exposed to blood or fluids from infected pigs, or through the consumption of undercooked pork.
The DVS said early symptoms of the disease in pigs include fever, inconsistent appetite, shifting lameness between legs, lethargy, and depression.
It added that infected pigs may also show signs of meningitis, such as pulling back their ears, squinting, loss of coordination, and adopting abnormal body positions (such as sitting like a dog).
Symptoms then can quickly advance, which include the pig no longer able to stand, foot pedalling movement, back muscle spasms that cause body arching, seizures, and uncontrolled eye movements.
“In some cases, the pigs will die without showing any symptoms, and livestock handlers have to report such cases to the DVS.”
The department added that it would continue monitoring the situation and safeguarding animal health and food safety to protect public veterinary health and the people’s well-being.
It also advised those in the industry, including farmers, slaughterhouse workers, meat transporters, and pork vendors, to take appropriate measures, such as wearing gloves and protective clothing when handling pigs or pork products.
“All pig farmers and livestock handlers are encouraged to be alert to any changes in their health and to seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms,” the statement added.
In a report by The Straits Times on May 7, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning following confirmed cases and deaths related to the infection.
A key risk factor is the consumption of raw pork dishes, especially larb moo, a spicy minced pork salad made from raw pork, which remains popular in Thailand. — DayakDaily
