Mattilsynet, the Norwegian Food Health Authority, has reported the detection of BKD in four farms in Norway owned by Lerøy, located in Hitra, Heim, Aure, and Kristiansund. BKD is a contagious bacterial kidney disease that has not been detected for fifteen years.
The suspicion existed a few days ago and has now been confirmed. Mattilsynet explained that measures had already been taken to prevent the spread of the disease. The infection was discovered through routine health check-ups, and everything indicates that the propagation has been due to contact with wellboats and deworming boats. However, the authority is still tracing the infection and its causes, which have not been detected in the region for years.
This disease is "serious, contagious and notifiable" explained the Norwegian authority, as it can "have significant consequences for the health and welfare of salmon."
Both Mattilsynet and Lerøy explained that they slaughtered the fish quickly and directly. Furthermore, they also instated additional resources for monitoring the situation.
"In addition to harvesting the relevant cages, the facilities in question have been cordoned off. We are now conducting sampling and gathering information," Hogstad explained. With this data, they can map where the infection started and how it has progressed.
The Norwegian Food Safety Authority plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of food and drinking water in Norway. Thus, it focuses on promoting public health and environmentally friendly production practices for plants, fish, and animals. With its responsibility for overseeing cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and animal health personnel.