Epidemiology and risk analysis
Gyrodactylus salaris
We have extensive experience investigating the detection
and spread of endemic, exotic and emerging diseases using risk
analysis and other models.
We do this work to understand more about how diseases affect
large numbers of animals in one place, at one time. In addition,
our investigations inform how disease outbreaks might be
handled and directly support aquatic animal health
policy-making.
Working closely with the Fish Health
Inspectorate, we have applied risk-based approaches to
disease surveillance to ensure that resources are focused on rivers
and farms where diseases are most likely to occur. Other modelling
approaches have been used to assess the likely spread of disease
through live fish movements and other routes.
Our investigations have explored factors influencing the
occurrence and distribution of endemic diseases (eg, proliferative
kidney disease) and new diseases (eg, red mark syndrome).
Our risk work has focused on assessing the threat of exotic
parasites and pathogens. The salmon parasite, Gyrodactylus
salaris, has been the focus of recent work. We have
extended the risk-based approach to investigate disease emergence
and the impact of climate change on disease threats.
Our epidemiological and
modelling approach is robust, systematic and transparent, and
helps to generate the evidence-base needed for effective
decision-making.
For more about epidemiology
and this risk analysis work, please contact ed.peeler@cefas.co.uk.