“In total, 81 samples of slaughtered pig blood were sent to National Research Centre on Equines in Hisar for investigation. The report reveals that 17 pig samples tested positive for JE virus antibodies from Civil Line, Shahdara (South) and SP Zone,” said Dr V K Monga, Chairman, Medical Relief and Public Health Committee.
These pigs are the potential carrier of the diseases and Culex mosquitoes can transmit this infection to human beings.
“An extensive surveillance system will be developed in consultation with Public Health Department to ensure that JEV does not spread in Delhi further,” said Monga. He said planning would have to focus on steps to limit the Culex mosquitoes menace and improve sanitary conditions around piggeries.
Published 15 December 2011, 20:40 IST