Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV)

Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV) is a virus that affects freshwater salmon and trout, causing a contagious disease primarily impacting their blood and immune organs. It spreads quickly through water and infected fish, leading to symptoms like anemia, lethargy, darkened skin, and high mortality rates, especially in young fish. IHNV can cause significant economic losses in aquaculture and wild fish populations. While there’s no direct human health risk, managing water quality, quarantine measures, and immune support are key to controlling its spread. Researchers continue to study IHNV to develop better prevention and treatment strategies.