Contact-zoonotic bacteria of warmwater ornamental and cultured fish

Abstract

In this small review, the most important contact-zoonotic bacteria and the diseases they cause in fish and humans are described. Especially, warmwater ornamental and fish culture professionals, owners, and processors are at risk in acquiring infections by Vibrio vulnificus, Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae, Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Mycobacterium marinum, Streptococcus iniae, or Streptococcus agalactiae, transmitted from their fish and fish water, in freshwater to marine environments. The chance of acquiring such a zoonosis is low, unless humans are immuno-compromised, and in case their skin is injured. These zoonoses are under reported, as in most countries they are non-notifiable. Strict hygiene for humans having direct contact with these fish in various fish holding and rearing facilities, and regular screening and health checks of imported warmwater ornamental fish at airports are recommended to avoid zoonosis and spread of potentially zoonotic, and often multiresistant bacteria.