Fishery temporarily closed after virus outbreak

Koi herpesvirus is a serious disease that affects a fish's gills, skin and eyes

An outbreak of Koi herpesvirus (KHV) disease has been confirmed at a popular fishery near Shrewsbury.

The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI) has put controls in place at Spring Lea Fishery, at Lea Cross, following the outbreak, but there is no threat to public health.

A site manager said on social media that "gutted is an understatement," urging people to "please, please observe fishery rules at any fishery you visit".

The fishery has said that all fishing activities across the site are suspended "with immediate effect and until further notice".

Spring Lea Holiday Park and Fishery said Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) had been confirmed in the Orfe fishing pool.

It thanked the public for their "understanding and cooperation" and said further updates would be provided "in due course".

The government's Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science describes KHV as a serious viral disease that "can result in large scale mortalities" among fish.

It can lead to necrotic patches on the gills, rough patches on the skin and mucous, and affected fish can have sunken eyes especially when water temperatures are between 16C and 28C.

The FHI must be contacted if an outbreak of KHV is suspected.

The government states that sites with KHV disease must undergo a formal monitoring programme following an outbreak.

The FHI places controls to limit the spread of disease, including the banning of moving any aquatic animal including eggs, and gametes, into, out of or within a confirmed designation area.

The confirmed designation at Spring Lea Fisheries will remain in force until it is withdrawn by the FHI.