Norwegian companies hit by escape and possible ISA outbreak

A so far unknown number of fish got out of a cage operated by the company Isqueen AS in the Vestvågøy municipality, in the Lofoten Islands.

The Norwegian Fisheries Directorate said farmed salmon in the cage in question weigh just under 2 kg.

 The company has deployed recapture nets and has so far caught approximately 80 farmed salmon. It is too early to say anything about the extent of the escape, the Directorate has said.

The Directorate added that it is following up on the matter with inspections, according to normal procedure.

A statement said: “We have also received tips about catches and observations of farmed salmon in the area. We would like the public to tip us off about catching and observing farmed salmon in the area.”

Isqueen AS is engaged in salmon farming and has five licenses in the surrounding area. Together with its subsidiary, Polarsmolt, it employs a total of around 60 employees.

Meanwhile, infectious salmon anaemia (ISA) is suspected at a facility run by the salmon giant Mowi in the Trondelag region.

Mowi Seawater Norway reported their suspicions to the Food Safety Authority on Tuesday and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority is planning to take samples for further testing.

Further restrictions on the movement of fish and personnel and a possible evacuation of the site will be put in place if the suspicion is confirmed.

While ISA is serious for fish, it is not harmful to humans.