Authorities in the United Kingdom have imposed movement restrictions on aquatic animals following the confirmation of a Koi herpesvirus (KHV) outbreak at a fish-growing facility in Aspley Guise, Milton Keynes.
The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI) confirmed the outbreak at a facility at Tree Farm on September 10, triggering statutory measures designed to prevent the virus from spreading to other fish farms and waterways.
KHV is a serious viral disease that affects common carp and ornamental carp, including koi. According to the UK Government, the disease can cause significant fish deaths, particularly when water temperatures range between 16°C and 28°C.
Affected fish may develop white or brown patches on their gills, damaged or rough skin, excessive loss of mucus and sunken eyes.
However, authorities stressed that KHV poses no risk to human health.
Under the restrictions, operators within the designated area are prohibited from moving aquatic animals, including live fish, eggs or gametes, into, out of or within the affected zone without written approval from the FHI.
Dead aquatic animals and related biological material must also be disposed of through approved Category 2 animal by-product waste procedures.
The FHI will monitor the affected facility and inspect compliance with the restrictions. Operators are required to immediately report any renewed fish deaths or evidence that the disease has spread to other facilities or bodies of water within the designated area.
Any proposed physical changes to affected sites, including alterations to boundaries, water bodies or their use, must also be reported to the inspectorate in advance.
The FHI said requests for necessary permissions should generally be submitted at least five working days before the proposed movement or activity.
Additional control measures could include enhanced biosecurity, further movement restrictions, culling of infected fish, and thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected premises.
KHV outbreaks have been subject to statutory controls in the UK since 2007, with the country maintaining a surveillance programme for the disease.
Authorities have urged fish owners and aquaculture operators to strengthen biosecurity measures and promptly report suspected cases to help prevent further spread.
