Koi herpesvirus confirmed at Greater Manchester fishing spot

A Koi herpesvirus outbreak impacts several UK fishing spots, including Moss Fisheries in Greater Manchester.

Koi herpesvirus outbreak affects Greater Manchester fisheries

Greater Manchester's Moss Fisheries has been officially designated an area affected by an outbreak of Koi herpesvirus. The Fish Health Inspectorate has confirmed the presence of this disease, which impacts all varieties of common carp. The notice warns that measures must be taken to prevent further spread of this viral infection, which can enter water bodies through infected fish or angling equipment. Symptoms of the disease in infected fish include damaged gills and sunken eyes. Currently, there is no known treatment, but strategies are in place for containment, including proper disposal of deceased fish and potential culling. Public health remains unaffected as the virus is specific to carp, yet it raises concerns among anglers and fisheries alike.

The outbreak of Koi herpesvirus in Greater Manchester highlights the fragility of fish populations and the challenges faced by local fisheries. While this disease specifically impacts carp, the broader implications touch on ecological balance and the responsibility of anglers to manage their practices. The Fishing Health Inspectorate's response underscores the importance of biosecurity in preventing disease transfer between aquatic environments. As fish stocks become vulnerable, it's crucial to consider the preventive measures that must be enforced to mitigate future outbreaks and their impact on recreational fishing.

Highlights

Constant vigilance and responsible angling practices are vital in protecting fish populations from such outbreaks.