Global aquaculture production is booming as the demand for healthy and efficient protein grows. Intensified farming and high biomasses elevate the risk and impact of disease, and as a consequence the use of antibiotics has been increasing. According to estimates more than 10 000 tons may be administered globally every year, a significant part of this in Asia, and of which a large portion is used for preventative purposes. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become common in many farming environments, which represents a serious threat not only to aquaculture but also to animal and human health in general.
The solutions required are as diverse as the industry and its challenges. It is however certain that preventive and evidence-based fish health management will be key to facilitate healthy and sustainable growth. A preventive approach encompasses a combination of tools such as genetics and nutritional improvements, targeted diagnostics, introduction of efficacious vaccines, biosecurity measures and regulation. Vaccination has been routine in the salmon industry for decades, all fish are vaccinated against up to ten different bacteria and viruses simultaneously, and automatic injection is commonly employed. Vaccination has also been successfully introduced to other industrialized species, such as European sea bass, tilapia and pangasius during the recent years, and the selection of vaccines is growing, but the percentage of farmed fish vaccinated globally is still insignificant.
In our presentation we will review PHARMAQ’s experiences from developing, licensing and introducing vaccines to new species in new markets, with a focus on opportunities, obstacles and success factors.