Norwegian Food Safety Authority imposes movement restrictions to prevent spread.
A systemic infection with Flavobacterium psychrophilum has been confirmed in rainbow trout at the Skålvik hatchery (site 11636) in Øygarden municipality, Vestland county, operated by Blom Settefisk AS.
The Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) confirmed the diagnosis on 11 April following laboratory analysis by the Norwegian Veterinary Institute. The initial suspicion arose after Pharmaq Analytic notified authorities on 22 February of findings consistent with a systemic infection, based on positive PCR results and microscopy.
To limit the risk of further spread, restrictions have been imposed on the site, including a ban on moving fish without special permission. Authorities have urged all individuals and companies operating in the area to exercise caution to prevent potential transmission.
Flavobacterium psychrophilum is a known pathogen in freshwater aquaculture and can cause bacterial coldwater disease, particularly affecting young salmonids.
An interactive map of the affected site is available via BarentsWatch here.