Scientists and Chinese officials are trying to isolate a deadly swine virus that could threaten the country's swine industry.

According to Reuters, an outbreak of African swine fever was discovered on a farm in Inner Mongolia. Eight pigs died and 14 others were infected.

Since August 1, the virus has spread in seven provinces of China, reports Bloomberg. About 40,000 hogs died, disrupting a $ 128 billion pork industry.

China has introduced several new rules to try to curb the spread of the virus. Reuters reports that the Chinese authorities have banned the transport of live pigs or pork products from areas bordering a province.

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China has also introduced bans on food waste or the use of pork blood, reports Reuters.

African swine fever is a virus that affects pigs. There is currently no vaccine against the disease, reports Bloomberg. The virus does not affect humans.

Last month, the American Food and Agriculture Association warned that the outbreak could spread to neighboring countries in Asia, reports the Associated Press.

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