The scientists "modify the genetic makeup of the pathogens to make them nonvirulent, and then develop vaccines that expose fish to low doses of the modified forms of the pathogens. The modified live vaccine for S. iniae, developed by Julia Pridgeon and Phillip H. Klesius, "appears to be superior to inactivated or killed vaccines. The live modified vaccine has enough similarity with the pathogen to create a lifelong immunity in fish."
The vaccination process for fish currently "consists of immersing the fish in water that contains the modified pathogen." Scientists, however, are researching new methods for vaccinating fish.
The vaccines are being developed by scientists at the Aquatic Animal Health Research Unit in Auburn, Alabama.
To read the ARS story, click here.
For more information on Aquaculture issues, click here to visit the National Agricultural Law Center's reading room on the subject.
Posted: 10/26/2010
