Group B Streptococcus (GBS) (Spanish Edition): Streptococcus agalactiae sequence type (ST) 283 in freshwater fish: Risk profile

This publication assesses the risks of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) along the freshwater fish supply chain, covering wild capture, transport, retail, and consumption. It stresses the role of good water quality and good fish husbandry management for reducing GBS disease in fish.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

This comprehensive publication delves into the multifaceted risks associated with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) along the freshwater fish supply chain, encompassing a wide range of stages, from wild capture to retail and consumption. It underscores the critical importance of maintaining good water quality and implementing effective fish husbandry practices to mitigate the prevalence of GBS disease in fish populations.

Wild capture: The first stage in the freshwater fish supply chain is the capture of fish in their natural habitats. It is during this phase that GBS can be introduced into the fish population through water contamination or direct contact with infected fish. Proper management of fishing practices, such as maintaining clean fishing equipment, implementing quarantine protocols, and monitoring water quality, can help reduce the risk of GBS transmission during wild capture.

Transport: Once fish are harvested from the wild, they are transported to processing facilities, markets, and retailers. During transportation, the fish may be exposed to various stressors, including temperature fluctuations, changes in water quality, and prolonged periods of confinement. Poor transportation conditions can increase the risk of GBS infection, particularly if the fish are held in crowded and unsanitary conditions.

Retail and consumption: The final stage of the freshwater fish supply chain involves the sale and consumption of fish by consumers. GBS can be present in fish at any stage of the supply chain, and it can survive in cold water conditions for extended periods. Consumers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked fish and take appropriate precautions, such as cooking the fish thoroughly before consumption.

Good water quality and good fish husbandry management: The primary defense against GBS disease in fish is the maintenance of good water quality and the implementation of effective fish husbandry practices. This includes regular monitoring of water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels, to ensure that the fish are being maintained in optimal conditions. Additionally, fish farmers should implement strict hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of farming equipment, to prevent the spread of GBS.

Conclusion: The freshwater fish supply chain presents several risks associated with GBS infection, including wild capture, transport, retail, and consumption. However, by implementing good water quality and fish husbandry management practices, it is possible to reduce the prevalence of GBS disease in fish populations and ensure the safety of consumers. It is essential for stakeholders in the freshwater fish industry to prioritize the health and well-being of fish and to work together to promote sustainable and responsible practices throughout the supply chain.

Wild capture:

The initial phase in the freshwater fish supply chain involves the capture of fish in their natural habitats. During this stage, Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can be introduced into the fish population through water contamination or direct contact with infected fish. To mitigate the risk of GBS transmission during wild capture, it is crucial to implement proper management of fishing practices. This includes maintaining clean fishing equipment, implementing quarantine protocols, and regularly monitoring water quality to ensure that it meets the necessary standards for fish health.

Transport:

Once fish are harvested from the wild, they are transported to processing facilities, markets, and retailers. During transportation, the fish may be exposed to various stressors, including temperature fluctuations, changes in water quality, and prolonged periods of confinement. Poor transportation conditions can increase the risk of GBS infection, particularly if the fish are held in crowded and unsanitary conditions. To minimize this risk, it is essential to ensure that transportation vehicles are properly maintained, that temperature control systems are in place, and that the fish are transported in clean and well-ventilated containers.

Retail and consumption:

The final stage of the freshwater fish supply chain involves the sale and consumption of fish by consumers. GBS can be present in fish at any stage of the supply chain, and it can survive in cold water conditions for extended periods. Consumers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked fish and take appropriate precautions, such as cooking the fish thoroughly before consumption. It is also important to ensure that fish products are properly stored and handled to prevent the spread of GBS.

Good water quality and good fish husbandry management:

The primary defense against GBS disease in fish is the maintenance of good water quality and the implementation of effective fish husbandry practices. This includes regular monitoring of water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels, to ensure that the fish are being maintained in optimal conditions. Additionally, fish farmers should implement strict hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of farming equipment, to prevent the spread of GBS.

Conclusion:

The freshwater fish supply chain presents several risks associated with GBS infection, including wild capture, transport, retail, and consumption. However, by implementing good water quality and fish husbandry management practices, it is possible to reduce the prevalence of GBS disease in fish populations and ensure the safety of consumers. It is essential for stakeholders in the freshwater fish industry to prioritize the health and well-being of fish and to work together to promote sustainable and responsible practices throughout the supply chain.

Dimension: 210 x 297 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789251358870