MOVEMENTS of fish into, out of and within a fishery near Redditch have been restricted, following the confirmation of Koi Herpesvirus disease.

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) acting on behalf of the Department for Rural Affairs (Defra) has issued a confirmed designation prohibiting the movement of fish to, from and within Alcott Farm Fishery, Icknield Street in Weatheroak.

Under the requirements of the designation the fishery has also been directed to establish and maintain on-site facilities for the disinfection of angling equipment prior to being taken out of the designated area and anglers must comply with their use.

A spokesman said: “Samples were taken from the affected site following reported deaths of fish showing clinical signs associated with this disease.

“The samples tested positive for the presence of Koi Herpesvirus.”

Koi Herpesvirus disease affects all varieties of carp (Cyprinus carpio), including common carp, mirror carp, ghost carp and koi carp and can result in high rates of fish mortalities.

CD 06/ 2010, issued under the Aquatic Animal Health, England and Wales Regulations 2009, restricts the movement of any live fish, including their eggs and gametes, into, out of or within the designated area without the prior written consent of the Fish Health Inspectorate at Cefas.

The disease thankfully has no implications for human health.

Koi Herpesvirus is a notifiable disease, any suspicion of its presence should be immediately reported to The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science in Weymouth by calling 01305 206700 or emailing fhi@cefas.co.uk.