A new case of ISA (infectious salmon anemia) has been reported by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at south coast aquaculture site.
The provincial government is monitoring the situation, according to a news release from the department of fisheries and aquaculture, and protocols are in place to limit the spread of the virus, which was discovered Monday.
The CFIA, which is receiving support from the Centre for Aquaculture Health and Development in St. Albans, put the site under quarantine today as a precaution.
“While ISA is not harmful to humans, if not managed properly it could cause further risk to other fish farms in the region,” Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Derrick Dalley said in the news release.
“Thus far, there is no sign of the virus spreading. However, in all cases where aquatic diseases are suspected or confirmed, the goal is to minimize exposure to infection and disruption to producers, while respecting obligations to take appropriate and prudent precautionary control measures. For that reason, CFIA had previously quarantined the infected site and our government will continue to provide any and all necessary support as the situation evolves and a depopulation order for the infected fish is issued.”
Dalley, along with Dr. Daryl Whelan, director of aquatic health and development, will speak with the media about the case at 4 p.m. today in front of the House of Assembly. The Telegram will provide more information as it becomes available.
Careful what you wish for Bill. In the unlikely event that aquaculture is forced onto dry land; there will be no need to locate the farms anywhere near Newfoundland and Labrador. They will be found on the outskirts of places like NY and LA near to the markets our rural economies will lose out once again. Perhaps you could then start an underwater chicken farm which will be equally cost-effective.