While Infectious hematopoietic necrosis is known to exist in certain species and populations of wild finfish in British Columbia, infectious pancreatic necrosis and infectious salmon anemia have not been confirmed in British Columbia.
Through this initiative, approximately 5,000 wild salmon will be collected every year, for a minimum of two years. The Agency will also assess the ongoing testing of farmed salmon.
According to the Agency, all disease testing, as well as any activities undertaken to respond to confirmed cases will comply with international guidelines and national aquatic animal health requirements. Any confirmed disease cases will be reported every month through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's website.
Several organizations are supporting the Agency in this initiative, including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Province of British Columbia, First Nations groups, and the aquaculture industry.
