ISA detected in Chile

The pathogenic strain of ISA has been confirmed at a site operated by Aquachile in the Aysén region.  

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Despite the presence of the virus, the condition of the fish at the site were assessed and samples for laboratory analysis obtained, confirming the absence of clinical signs or mortality associated with the disease, so it is not currently considered an outbreak.

The case of pathogenic ISA virus (different from HPR0) was confirmed by the Chilean Service of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Sernapesca) at Aquachile's site “Tránsito II”, which is located in neighborhood 21 B.

According to Sernapesca, results from sequencing show that this case corresponds to HPR 8 strain. This new detection was performed under the surveillance protocols established in the programme of control against ISA.

The director of Sernapesca, José Miguel Burgos, said that Aquachile started an early harvesting process in the cage where the virus was detected as a precautionary measure.

He also commented that, as in the previous cases, the affected site will be weekly monitored by Sernapesca officials, assessing evolution of the case and fulfillment of all required biosecurity measures for each procedure. Likewise, there will be permanent monitoring of farm sites in surrounding areas.