Malaysia free of Streptococcus infections linked to pigs

In Malaysia, the Veterinary Services Department (VSD) said the country remains free of Streptococcus suis bacterial infections linked to pigs. The statement comes after concerns about recent reports of infections and deaths in neighbouring Thailand. The VSD remarked on the current safety of the country and added that it will continue to monitor the situation to protect food safety and public health. It also advised farmers, slaughterhouse workers, meat transporters, and pork vendors to take appropriate measures to reduce the risk of infection, including wearing gloves and protective clothing when handling pigs or pork products. Farmers and livestock handlers are also encouraged to monitor their health and seek immediate medical attention if developing suspicious symptoms.
Streptococcus suis causes streptococcosis in pigs, a disease that can also be transmitted to humans through open wounds exposed to blood or fluids from infected animals or through the consumption of raw pork. Early symptoms in pigs are fever, lack of appetite, shifting lameness between legs, and lethargy.