Colombo , October 21 (Daily Mirror) - The Department of Animal Production and Health has decided to make the veterinary health certificate mandatory when transporting pigs.

The decision has been made considering the highly contagious viral disease known as 'Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome' (PRRS), spreading among pigs, hogs and boars in Sri Lanka.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Director General of the Department of Animal Production and Health, Dr. Hemali Kothalawala said it is compulsory for the farm owners to obtain the veterinary health certificate from their respective veterinarians.

“Transporting pigs sans a valid health certificate is strictly prohibited. This is to ensure that the pigs are free from the viral diseases,” Dr. Kothalawala stated.