A number of pigs from a Yuen Long pig farm has tested positive for the African swine fever (ASF) virus, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said on Thursday.

The AFCD said it took samples from 62 pigs from the farm at Lau Fau Shan on Wednesday and Thursday – and at least five pigs tested positive for the virus.

It said it has suspended transportation of any pigs from the farm and is culling around 1,900 pigs on the farm.

Authorities added that they have inspected three other pig farms in the area.

“One of these pig farms has no pigs on farm. For the other two pig farms, samples were taken from pigs for ASF testing. Test results were all negative and no abnormalities were found in the health of those pigs,” a department spokesperson said.

“For the sake of prudence, the AFCD has also temporarily suspended movements of pigs on these farms until further notice.”

The department said the case will not affect the supply of live pigs in the territory. It also noted that the ASF virus is not a zoonotic disease and does not pose a food safety risk to humans.

“Pork cooked thoroughly is safe for consumption. Members of the public do not need to be concerned.”