NEW AQUATIC ANIMAL DISEASE OUTBREAK PLAN

New Aquatic Animal Disease Outbreak Plan will ensure the UK retains its high aquatic animal health status. The Contingency Plan for Exotic Notifiable and Emerging Diseases of Aquatic Animals in England and Wales,  published. It outlines how Defra, Welsh Government, and its operational partners prepare for and respond to outbreaks of aquatic animal disease.

Disease outbreaks, such as Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) and Infectious Haematopoietic Necrosis (IHN), can cause aquatic animals to suffer, disrupt trade, damage businesses and the environment, and cost the UK taxpayer significant sums of money.

The UK currently has high aquatic animal health status and is free from the most serious aquatic animal diseases. There is a shared responsibility between government & industry to ensure that if disease occurs, it is diagnosed early and eradicated.

The plan provides for a swift, effective and co-ordinated response to control and eradicate disease, which supports the path to regaining disease-free status, and restoring international trade.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

“I am proud of the UK’s high aquatic animal health status, and we are committed to maintaining this internationally recognised footing.

“The plan published today sets out clear steps for industry and government to respond quickly to aquatic disease outbreaks, ensuring the UK remains a world-leading food and farming nation.”