ISA confirmed at Nordlaks site in Hadsel.
Infectious salmon anaemia (ILA) has been confirmed at Nordlaks Havbruk’s Dragnes site in Hadsel municipality, following elevated mortality observed in one cage.
Samples were collected on 28 May, and on 5 June the presence of the ISA virus was confirmed via immunohistochemistry. A final diagnosis is expected later in the week. However, Nordlaks has already decided to cull the entire site, with operations expected to begin on 9 June.
“This is a difficult decision, but necessary to prevent further spread of the disease,” said Eirik Welde, CEO of Nordlaks. “The recent algae bloom and now the ILA outbreak are having a significant impact on our operations. We are working to minimise the consequences.”
The fish at Dragnes were stocked in autumn 2024 and currently have an average weight of 850 grams. Approximately 1.9 million fish are held at the site.
ISA is a serious, contagious viral disease affecting salmonids. It poses no risk to humans.