The United Kingdom has confirmed an outbreak of Koi herpesvirus disease at a fish-growing facility in Aspley Guise, Milton Keynes, with authorities imposing movement controls to prevent the virus from spreading.
The Fish Health Inspectorate confirmed the outbreak at a facility at Tree Farm, Aspley Guise, on September 10, according to a statement published by the UK Government on Monday.
The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science said Koi herpesvirus, commonly known as KHV, is a serious viral disease affecting fish and is a listed disease in the UK.
The disease affects common and ornamental carp species, scientifically known as Cyprinus carpio, and can cause large-scale fish deaths.
According to the authorities, infected fish may develop white or brown patches on their gills, roughened skin, excessive shedding of mucus and sunken eyes.
The symptoms are particularly associated with water temperatures between 16°C and 28°C.
Despite the seriousness of the outbreak for susceptible fish populations, the UK Government said there is no risk to public health.
Following confirmation of the outbreak, statutory controls have been imposed on the designated area.
Under the restrictions, aquatic animals, including fish eggs and gametes, cannot be moved into, out of or within the designated area without prior written consent from the Fish Health Inspectorate.
The authorities have also imposed requirements concerning the disposal of dead aquatic animals and related materials.
Dead fish, eggs and gametes must be disposed of through an approved method for Category 2 animal-by-product waste and in accordance with local environmental health requirements.
The Fish Health Inspectorate said affected sites must immediately enter a formal monitoring programme following confirmation of an outbreak.
Officials will inspect affected facilities, monitor signs of disease and check compliance with the statutory restrictions.
Operators must also notify the inspectorate if fish deaths recur or spread to other waters or facilities within the designated area.
The UK has maintained statutory controls against KHV outbreaks since 2007 and operates a surveillance programme to monitor the disease.
Where an outbreak is confirmed, authorities may introduce movement restrictions, strengthen biosecurity measures, cull affected fish and require cleaning and disinfection of premises.
The government has urged fish owners and operators to take appropriate biosecurity measures and report suspected outbreaks, particularly where carp or carp hybrids show signs associated with KHV or experience unexplained deaths.
