"We have battled pancreas disease (PD) for four years, and now on top of this there is a new virus variant. Now is the time to evaluate whether the current strategy is working, or whether we need to make some changes," said Kristina Landsverk, Director of the Food and Safety Authority.
In order to figh PD, the country is divided into two zones. In the Southern zone the aim is to limit damage from the disease, and in the Northern zone eradication is targeted. Hustadvika is seen as the barrier between the North and South. Ms Landsverk said she believed that the fight in the North against PD has been successful.
Outbreaks of PD are commonly caused by virus variant SAV 3.
However, some recent outbreaks are caused by a new virus variant, called SAV 2. "This virus strain is the cause of recent outbreaks in central and North Norway," said Ms Landsverk.
The Food Safety Authority is asking the National Veterinary Institute to evaluate whether the current strategy is appropriate.
"We want them to consider whether Hustadvika is an effective barrier and to analyse whether the current strategy pays off financially, if North of Hustadvika is kept PD free."
"We are also asking the National Veterinary Institute to point out possible sources of infection for outbreaks North of Hustadvika, and assess whether the new virus variant could be fought by other means," said Ms Landsverk.
Is the Current PD Strategy Enough?
NORWAY - The Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) is asking the National Veterinary Institute to evaluate current strategies to control pancreas disease in salmon in Norway.
