Efforts to contain an outbreak of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) that has left more than a thousand pigs dead have expanded to districts neighbouring the original three districts affected in Siem Reap province, according to an official.

The sickness has killed over 1,200 pigs since it began in August, and officials are now trying to contain it to the three Siem Reap districts where it originated: Sotr Nikum, Chi Kraeng and Prasat Bakong.

“We are concerned about the disease spreading to more districts, that’s why we are making efforts in other districts as well,” said Prum Vich, an animal health official at the Ministry of Agriculture.

According to Vich, a unit distributed disinfectant for pig farms and raised awareness yesterday in Bakong district and neighbouring Thma Puok district in Banteay Meanchey province.

The unit is set to continue its campaign in Siem Reap’s Kralanh district today.

Ministry spokesman Eang Sophalleth said authorities in Siem Reap had been ordered to inform farmers not to go near sick pigs or sell their meat or hides at the market.

“Now we can control this outbreak, because we are prepared and have sent enough equipment and [disinfectant] spray to the province,” he said.