Koi Herpesvirus disease outbreak confirmed

Movements of fish in and out of Weller Pool, Lynsters Lakes, Coppermill Lane, Maple Cross, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire have been restricted, following the confirmation of Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) Disease. Movements of fish in and out of the adjacent waters in the Colne River Valley, Hertfordshire and Greater London Area have also been restricted.

Defra has issued a Designated Area Order prohibiting the movement of fish to and from Lynsters Lakes and all waters that have potential contact with the infected fishery in order to prevent the spread of the disease.

KHV Disease affects common carp and carp varieties such as Koi. It can result in high rates of fish mortalities.

There are no implications for human health.

It became a legal obligation to notify suspicion of KHV Disease on 6th April 2007. The measures developed in partnership between government and industry to help combat outbreaks were announced on 21st May 2007.

Suspicion of the presence of the disease should be immediately reported to: the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Weymouth