The Scottish Executive today announced that the presence of Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) is suspected at Marine Harvest's Loch Sheilavaig salmon farm in South Uist.
FRS Fish Health Inspectors are currently investigating the affected farm. Statutory restrictions are in place controlling the movement into and out of the farm of all fish.
Marine Harvest are working with SEERAD to minimise any risk and ensure the health of their fish.
The EC Scientific Committee on Animal Health and Animal Welfare has concluded that there is no evidence of risk to human health from ISA.
NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS
1. ISA is notifiable under European and domestic fish health legislation, which requires measures to eradicate rather than control the disease. An outbreak was confirmed in Scotland in 1998 and eradication measures including clearance of infected sites and controls on movements of fish in affected areas has succeeded in preventing further outbreaks.
2. Signs of ISA include high mortality rates, darkening of the liver, severe anaemia and internal haemorrhage.
For further information, contact:
Stephen Orr
SEERAD Press Office
Tel: 0131 244 2953