Causative agent: Rhabdovirus carpio — rhabdovirus
Spring Viremia of Carp (SVC) is a devastating viral disease of carp-family fish that holds special significance in Australia due to the presence of enormous feral carp populations in the Murray-Darling river system and the iconic status of koi in Australian water gardens. Caused by Rhabdovirus carpio, SVC is a NOTIFIABLE DISEASE in Australia — meaning any suspected case must be immediately reported to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). There is no treatment; all affected fish must be humanely euthanised, and all equipment, water, and the aquarium itself must be thoroughly decontaminated. The potential ecological impact of SVC entering Australian waterways would be catastrophic. Australian aquarium hobbyists who import fish from overseas are subject to strict biosecurity controls, and any fish showing haemorrhagic symptoms — particularly goldfish or koi during the cooler months — should be considered a potential SVC case until ruled out. Contact your state fisheries authority immediately if SVC is suspected.
Symptoms
- •Lethargy
- •haemorrhaging of skin and internal organs
- •swollen abdomen
- •protrusion of eyes
- •fluid discharge from body openings
- •sudden mass mortality
- •darkened skin
Treatment
- •No effective treatment — this is a NOTIFIABLE disease in Australia. Affected fish must be euthanised. All equipment must be thoroughly disinfected. Report to DAFF immediately.
Australian Medications
- •No treatment available — report to Australian DAFF (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry)
Commonly Affected Fish
- •Carp, goldfish, koi, and other cyprinids (carp family)
Important Notes
NOTIFIABLE DISEASE IN AUSTRALIA — must be reported to DAFF immediately. Potential catastrophic impact on feral carp and Australian waterways. No treatment.