Workshop by HIPRA

Lactococcosis has traditionally been attributed to Lactococcus garvieae, considered the main etiological agent in fish. However, recent studies based on advanced molecular techniques have enabled a taxonomic revision of the genus Lactococcus, identifying Lactococcus petauri as the predominant species in lactococcosis outbreaks in rainbow trout in Spain, while L. garvieae continues to play a relevant role in trout in Italy and in marine species such as European sea bass.

The strain used in the vaccine ICTHIOVAC® LG was initially characterized and registered as L. garvieae, in accordance with the scientific knowledge available at the time of its development. Subsequent molecular analyses have demonstrated that this strain belongs to the species L. petauri, without implying any change in its biological identity or immunogenic properties.

This presentation reviews current knowledge on Lactococcus in fish and presents efficacy studies demonstrating cross-protection of ICTHIOVAC® LG against both species, supporting the update of the vaccine strain name in the SPC approved by the EMA.

Speaker: Rosa Merino, Aqua Global Technical Manager HIPRA