Shafaq News – Baghdad
Iraq is currently facing an outbreak of Koi Herpesvirus (KHV), a disease affecting its fish farms and threatening the country’s fish supply. The situation has led to a noticeable decline in fish sales, as many consumers refrain from buying fish due to health concerns, despite assurances from experts that KHV only impacts carp and is not a risk to human health.
According to Thaer al-Asadi, Director of the Epidemiology Department at the Veterinary Directorate within the Ministry of Agriculture, KHV has been present in Iraq since 2018, starting in the Al-Musayyib region of Babil province and progressing throughout the country. The virus is prevalent in water temperatures between 25°C and 32°C, and new infections have been confirmed this season.
While there is no cure for viral diseases, measures have been initiated to control the spread of KHV, including the use of antiviral sprays in fish farms and travel restrictions on fish between regions. Al-Asadi noted that these precautions aim to reduce infections and include thorough monitoring across provinces.
This outbreak has resulted in a significant drop in fish prices, with the cost in Baghdad’s markets falling to approximately 4,000 dinars ($2.80) per kilogram, down from nearly 10,000 dinars ($7) prior to the outbreak.
- Why it matters:
- The outbreak may lead to a food supply issue for residents dependent on fish as a primary protein source.
- Market instability and decreased fish prices could affect local fishery businesses and their economies.
- The latest: New infections of KHV have been confirmed this season, necessitating ongoing monitoring and response efforts from agricultural authorities.
Source: https://shafaq.com/en/society/Koi-virus-outbreak-drives-fish-prices-down-in-Iraq
Source: https://shafaq.com/en/society/Koi-virus-outbreak-drives-fish-prices-down-in-Iraq