Publication Abstract

The spread of pathogens through trade in aquatic animals and their products

C.J. Rodgers, C.V. Mohan and E.J. Peeler*

It is known that transboundary spread of infectious diseases is aided by trade in live animals and the consequences can be severe if, as a result, a pathogen broadens its host range to new species. There is increasing trade in aquatic animal species, and aquaculture is expanding to meet the demands for animal protein from a growing human population. Moreover, it is clear that aquaculture has created potential new pathways by which pathogens and diseases may be introduced or spread to new areas. In general, the risk of pathogen transfer is generally considered greater for movement of live aquatic animals than for movement of processed and dead product. The currently available aquatic animal health standards support the concept of minimising the risk of disease and pathogen incursion while, at the same time, avoiding unjustifiable or unnecessary impediments to trade. Nevertheless, the international spread of aquatic animal diseases through the movement of animals still occurs despite the current standards. Consequently, this paper considers the evidence linking international trade in aquatic animals and aquatic animal-derived products with the transmission and spread of aquatic animal diseases. This is achieved by providing examples of pathogen transfer leading to disease spread, as well as considering the situation of emerging diseases and the need for a holistic approach to deal with risk-based threats at source.

Reference:

C.J. Rodgers, C.V. Mohan and E.J. Peeler (2011) The spread of pathogens through trade in aquatic animals and their products.  Revue Scientific et Technique, Office International des Epizooties, 30, 1, 241-256

http://web.oie.int/boutique/extrait/18rodgers241256.pdf