Changes to KHV disease controls in recreational fisheries

From June 2026, the Fish Health Inspectorate’s (FHI) approach to managing Koi herpesvirus (KHV) in recreational fisheries in England and Wales will change.

This reflects our established proportionate and risk-based approach to aquatic animal health controls and is informed by evidence demonstrating the endemic nature of KHV in wild fish populations and that statutory disease controls do not materially influence pathogen spread. 

Importantly, this change does not affect the legal requirement to report suspicion or confirmation of KHV to the FHI under the Aquatic Animal Health (England and Wales) Regulations 2009. 

All reports of suspected KHV will continue to be assessed, recorded and monitored by the FHI. 

Where the species affected, water temperature, clinical signs and mortality patterns are consistent with KHV disease and there are no grounds to suspect another listed or emerging disease: 

the FHI will not routinely undertake statutory sampling; and 

will not routinely impose statutory disease control measures at recreational fisheries. 

maintain ongoing contact with the fishery operator and relevant partners, including the Environment Agency; 

provide advice on appropriate biosecurity measures; and 

monitor for any changes in the clinical picture. 

If the disease risk changes, or there is suspicion of another listed or emerging disease, the FHI will take further action. This may include: 

an investigation to determine the introduction and spread of the disease 

collection of samples for testing at the relevant National Reference Laboratory at the Cefas Weymouth Laboratory 

the application of disease control measures where appropriate 

Investigation of KHV disease outbreaks and controls will continue to be applied at authorised aquaculture production businesses (APBs) and sites involved in fish movements, such as fish farms, importers, wholesalers and KHV approved compartments.