Officials report infection across 13 provinces and cities as more and more pigs have been found to be afflicted with Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), also known as blue-ear disease, which can be fatal to both the porcine species and humans.

With more than 50,000 pigs that have fallen ill and over 21,000 dead, the country’s Veterinary Agency has dispatched animal health workers to the infected areas to help treat and contain the epidemic.

Meanwhile, four humans have been diagnosed so far with the disease, which can be transmitted by consuming the meat of diseased pigs. With initial symptoms being flu-like, patients are often treated too late and sometimes suffer fatal consequences.

We send our sympathies to those affected by this deadly disease, humans and pigs alike.
May our world soon advance to an era where we cease consuming the flesh of our animal brethren, and all beings live in the peace and vibrant health arising from plant-based fare.
http://english.vovnews.vn/Home/Blueear-pig-disease-spreads-to-13-provinces-and-cities/20105/115403.vov
http://english.vietnamnet.vn/social/201005/SOCIETY-IN-BRIEF-9/5-908797/
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/health/2010-05/06/c_13280926.htm
http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn/Social-Isssues/199366/Blue-ear-pig-disease-confuses-the-market.html