The highly contagious viral disease previously known as Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), which is spreading among pigs, hogs, and boars in Sri Lanka, has been identified as African Swine Disease.

According to the Department of Animal Production and Health, the disease, which initially affected wild boars, has now begun to spread to pigs on farms. Steps are being taken to contain the outbreak.

In response to the situation, the Department of Animal Production and Health has suspended the transport of pigs between all divisional secretariats in the country.

The department had previously mandated a veterinary health certificate for transporting pigs.