Description

Infectious haematopoietic necrosis (IHN) is a viral disease that has not yet been reported from the UK. It is thought that most salmonid populations in the UK will be susceptible to the virus especially fry and fingerlings in freshwater.

Signs of Infection

Infected fish are often lethargic with bouts of abnormally frenzied activity followed by death. External signs include protruding eyes, darkened skin, haemorrhage at the base of the fins, pale gills and a long opaque pseudocast trailing from the vent. Internal signs are anaemic appearance and a mucus like fluid in the gut.

Pathways

The diseased can be transmitted through water transfer, by movement of fish and contact with contaminated untreated waste material and equipment.