Viruses in salmon no problem for humans
By Ian Roberts, Times Colonist June 5, 2012
Re: "Fish-farm viruses cause for concern," May 30.
A virus in salmon should not be a concern at all.
Every drop of sea water has about 10 million viruses. All foods we eat contain viruses. The specific virus the writer is disturbed about in farm-raised salmon is the same virus found in most wild salmon, especially sockeye. Safe to eat, with no risk to human health.
I hope these facts help the writer feel confident eating B.C. salmon and seafood.
Ian Roberts
Marine Harvest Canada Campbell River
Ian's letter was in response to the following:
Fish-farm viruses cause for concern
By Carolyn Wold, Times Colonist May 30, 2012
I am concerned about the outbreak of viruses in salmon fish farms on our coast. I find it disturbing that some of these diseased fish will be sent to market and end up on someone's dinner plate, likely without them even knowing what they are eating.
I have two questions that I am hoping somebody can answer: How does one quarantine a fish farm in an open pen in the Pacific Ocean when the water is moving constantly from tides, wind and currents?
I would also like to know if the federal government will compensate Mainstream Canada for the fish that were destroyed. I would be awfully disappointed to see my tax dollars going to this cause.
Carolyn Wold
Victoria
