Notice to industry - Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia detected in Atlantic herring in Newfoundland and Labrador

July 16, 2020 - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the presence of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) in wild Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in waters off of Newfoundland and Labrador. VHS is an infectious disease affecting certain finfish and is not a risk to human health.

VHS is considered endemic in this zone, so this new finding (May 2020) does not change Canada's status for VHS in susceptible species. The detection of VHSV may however affect the CFIA's ability to certify exports of Atlantic herring, including fish and seafood products, harvested in Newfoundland and Labrador, to specific countries.

For information on specific changes to export certification, please contact your local CFIA office.

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