CyHV-2 Outbreak Associated with Aeromonas spp. in Crucian Carp (Carassius carassius) in Piedmont (Italy)

Cyprinid Herpesvirus 2 (CyHV-2) is an emerging pathogen which can cause huge economic losses in fish farming worldwide. This study describes a disease outbreak in crucian carp (Carassius carassius), reporting for the first time a CyHV-2 infection in Piedmont (Italy), since it has never been described in this area. Our findings also highlighted that both Aeromonas hydrophila and Aeromonas sobria have been isolated in association with CyHV-2; we have speculated that motile Aeromonas spp. and CyHV-2 could be regarded as a potential “infectious pathogenic-complex”. However, this evidence-based hypothesis must be corroborated by further studies and investigations. In our opinion, it is very important, through experimental studies and case report, to determine the impact of CyHV-2 on Carassius carassius, in order to establish proper commercial regulation and biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and widespread of diseases.

Keywords: Aeromonas spp., CyHV-2, Crucian carp.