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Disease Control

PREVENTION

1. Quarantine
2. Stress control
3. Immunization procedures: Certain vaccines are in use in some food fish for selected viruses, including CCVD, IHN, and VHS. Bacterins for prevention of diseases including Furunculosis and Vibriosis are also in use. Other vaccines are in the stage of research and development.

CONSIDERATIONS IN THERAPY OF FISH DISEASES

I. Clinical History Evaluation (including any factors predisposing to stress) and Signs.

II. Clinical Examination of Fish (or necropsy if indicated).

III. Examination of Facility (if feasible or appropriate).

IV. Water Quality Evaluation (major importance)

V. Diagnosis — based on clinical history and examinations plus laboratory procedure.

VI. Treatment Methods Available. Considerations (advisability of whether or not to treat).

A. Legal requirements (including EPA regulations).

B. Drug selection based on diagnosis.

C. Environmental considerations (e.g. effect on (beneficial) nitrifying bacteria in filter system).

D. Type of fish culture system.

E. Method of Administration of Treatment.

1. Localized surgical treatment (e.g. removal of a growth)

2. Injection (e.g. approved, appropriate antibiotic in larger fish).
3. Dips and baths (drug solution in "hospital tank")

4. Flush treatment (e.g. fish hatchery with continuous flow of water).
5. Oral treatment (e.g. mixing with fish feeds).