The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFA) has confirmed an outbreak of a deadly fish disease in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, prompting swift government action to prevent further spread and protect local livelihoods.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, 4 June, the Ministry revealed that the disease, identified as Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS), was first detected on 12 January 2025 following reports of unusual fish deaths in Kambungli.

“Further investigations confirmed the outbreak of Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS), a severe transboundary disease recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH),” the statement said.

EUS is caused by the pathogen Aphanomyces invadans sp. and presents as skin ulcers and lesions. It has affected several wild freshwater fish species in the area, including catfish and snakehead.

Following the report, the Ministry deployed a team of experts from multiple institutions, including the Fish Health Unit of the Fisheries Commission, the Water Research Institute (WRI), the Accra Veterinary Laboratory, Emed Diagnostic Services, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP).

“Histopathological and PCR testing methods confirmed the presence of the disease, with 80% of tested samples returning positive results,” the Ministry noted.

To contain the outbreak, a temporary fishing ban has been placed on the Ebi, Amanzule and Fia rivers within the Ellembelle District. Authorities are also restricting the movement of live fish from affected areas and enforcing safe disposal methods such as burning or incineration for infected fish.

MoFA is urging the public to assist in monitoring and report any unusual appearance or behaviour of fish. “The Ministry encourages the public to report on any appearance and/or behaviour of fish promptly,” the statement said.

The Ministry assured Ghanaians of its commitment to protecting aquatic life and supporting the sustainability of the fisheries sector. “The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture remains fully committed to the protection of aquatic life, the sustainability of the fisheries sector and the food security of all Ghanaians.”