Division II.2 Diagnostic methods to obtain or maintain disease-free status with regard to ISA

The diagnostic method to be used to obtain or to maintain disease-free status with regard to ISA in accordance with points I.2 and I.3 shall be RT-qPCR, followed by sequencing of positive samples in accordance with the detailed methods and procedures set out in Part 3 of Annex II.

In the case of a positive result to RT-qPCR, further samples shall be tested before the implementation of the initial control measures provided for in F1Part 4 of the Aquatic Animal Health Regulations.

Those samples shall be tested as follows in accordance with the detailed methods and procedures set out in Part 3 of Annex II:

1. (a)

   screening of the samples by RT-qPCR, including sequencing of the HE-gene to verify HPR-deletion;

   and

2. (b)

   examination in tissue preparations by means of specific antibodies against ISAV (namely IHC on fixed sections or IFAT on tissue imprints); or

3. (c)

   isolation and identification of ISAV in cell culture from at least one sample from any fish sampled from the farm.