Chinese scientists have developed a new technology to test the pig-borne disease caused by swine Streptococcus suis more effectively.

The new technology will take only one hour and a half to spot swine Streptococcus suis bacteria, while the traditional method takes three to seven days.

The technology was developed by experts with the Beijing Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine Department and the China Veterinary Products Supervision Institute.

It passed appraisal by an expert team from the State Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine on Friday.

The pig-borne disease, caused by swine Streptococcus suis bacteria, hit southwest China's Sichuan this July, leaving about 40 people dead.

Streptococcus suis is usually transmitted through contact with raw pork or sick swine. Symptoms include high fever, nausea and vomiting, followed by meningitis, hemorrhaging under the skin, toxic shock and sometimes coma. 

(Xinhua News Agency August 27, 2005)