Lethal Virus Hits U.S. Great Lakes Species, Threatens Fishing

[shugah]

Source: Bloomberg.com

May 18 (Bloomberg) -- A virus in the Great Lakes region of the U.S. threatens 19 species of fish, including muskellunge, walleye and small-mouthed bass, and may harm New York state's $2 billion-a-year sports-fishing economy.

An infection called viral hemorrhagic septicemia, which causes anemia and severe bleeding, has led to the death of hundreds of thousands of fish in the state this year, according to a statement released today by Cornell University scientists in Ithaca, New York. The virus doesn't hurt humans and isn't associated with salmon or trout.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, in Albany, has issued guidelines for sport fishers and boaters, aimed at curbing the virus. The infection may lead to less fishing. The pastime contributed an estimated $2 billion to the state's economy in 2003, the latest year for which a figure is available, according to the American Sportfishing Association, based in Alexandria, Virginia.

``We don't know the direct impact on recreational resources, but there is the potential this could be significant,'' said Paul Bowser, a Cornell professor of aquatic animal medicine, in a telephone interview. ``There needs to be a heightened awareness of the virus. Individuals will need to contribute to the big effort to prevent its spread.''

Read more: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601082&sid=apMujinlrnmE&refer=canada

[Purveyor]

1. It is being reported today that this virus has been found in an inland Michigan lake...

DNR finds lethal fish disease in Michigan inland lake

Updated: May 18, 2007 06:32 PM EDT

BARRY COUNTY -- A virus spreading quickly through the Great Lakes is killing tens of thousands of fish, a disease scientists say causes fish to bleed to death.

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"It can take up very significant numbers which could effect fishing opportunities in inland waters and the great lakes," said the DNR's Jim Dexter, "so it's a big concern for us and we're trying to do our best to control it."

http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=6537291&nav=0Rce

Just what Michigan doesn't need. Another blow to its economy. Fishing and tourism is a huge business in this state.

[IthinkThereforeIAM]

3. It is in Wisconsin,too...

... and no doubt is being found in other states, too. Check this search on viral hemorrhagic septicemia <http://news.ask.com/news?qsrc=1&o=0&l=dir&q=viral%20hemorrhagic%20septicemia>

[anotherdrew]

2. "The virus doesn't hurt humans" if it kills our food, it hurts humans

this kinda thing seems to be getting more common...