The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development has warned farmers about a suspected outbreak of a disease called Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) that affects fish. According to the ministry, the disease has been discovered at Dambo village, Mlonyeni Extension Planning Area (EPA) in Mchinji District within Kasungu ADD.

A statement by the ministry has outlined that the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) is a highly contagious fungal disease that mostly affects freshwater fish. As the fisheries sector contributes to the Malawian economy, the disease will negatively affect the country’s socio-economy. “The disease results in low or no income that comes from fish, generally reduced fish protein intake and risk of the ban of fish exports which will affect the if not timely controlled.” says part of the statement.

While the consumption of fish that have EUS does not directly affect humans, the disease causes deep ulcers, as some opportunistic bacteria can invade the wounds and if someone eats the infected fish. On the other hand, diseases like diarrhea can occur especially in children, upon consumption of the infected fish.

The Agro ministry’s Secretary, Gray Nyandule Phiri, the results from the preliminary investigation conducted so far, have shown that the disease has affected almost the entire district of Mchinji and an infinite number of fish is at a high risk.