Listed diseases of fish, molluscs and crustacea and their status

Guidance on listed diseases of fish and shellfish and their status in England and Wales, including what happens if a disease is suspected or confirmed.

If you suspect a listed fish or shellfish disease

‘Listed’ diseases of fish and shellfish are diseases that you’re legally obliged to report immediately to the Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), Cefas, even if you only suspect that an animal may be affected. They are also referred to as ‘notifiable’ diseases.

If you suspect or know of a listed disease of fish and shellfish in England and Wales you must report it immediately to the FHI. You must also tell the FHI immediately if you know or suspect that increased mortality has occurred. Failure to do so is an offence and you could be fined up to £5,000.

If the FHI suspects a listed or emerging disease:

Disease control measures are applied to a designated area when this is considered appropriate to prevent or limit the spread of that disease. The measures are set out in a legally binding initial designation notice that restricts movements of fish or shellfish to, from, or within the designated area and may require additional biosecurity measures.  An initial designation notice is not made public. It is an offence not to comply with the disease control measures applied under an initial designation.    

When the FHI makes an initial designation, they will carry out a disease investigation, which includes collection of samples to test for the disease in question. Depending on the tests required it can take 14 days or more from receipt of sample at the laboratory to getting results. The FHI will advise the site operator on what to expect and keep them informed of progress. 

if the test results are negative for the disease under suspicion and listed or emerging disease is ruled out the initial designation notice is lifted.