Advancements in Fish Vaccination: Current Innovations and Future Horizons in Aquaculture Health Management

Abstract

Aquaculture is rapidly becoming one of the pivotal sectors in the farm economy, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality animal protein at an affordable cost, especially with the escalating human population. However, the expansion of high-density fish populations also brings forth a challenge – the rapid transmission and spread of infectious disease agents among them. To combat this, vaccination is emerging as a reliable and standardized method for providing immunity against viral and bacterial outbreaks. The ideal vaccine is expected to be safe, effective, economical, and easily administered. The fish vaccination industry continually publishes new information on fish immunology and vaccinology, contributing to the improvement of vaccine formulation and efficacy. This review aims to offer insights into the current status of bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases, discuss existing vaccinations, and address potential industry-threatening diseases like infectious edwardsiellosis, motile aeromonas septicemia, TiLV, salmon anemia, vibriosis, and white spot disease. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of fish immunological mechanisms, leading to improved vaccine administration and the development of recombinant live attenuated, subunit, DNA, and RNA vaccines. However, challenges such as oral tolerance, vaccine degradation, and stressful environments persist, impacting vaccine efficacy. Addressing these challenges and gaining a deeper understanding of the fish immune system and host-pathogen interactions will be pivotal for future improvements, contributing to the sustainability of aquaculture and enhancing global food security.

Fish Welfare – A Case Study: Reviling for the first-time side effects of vaccination in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and barramundi (Lates calcarifer) in the Israeli fish farming

“…Adherence to regulatory standards, good aquaculture practices, and responsible vaccine use are key factors in minimizing any potential impacts of leftover fish adjuvants. 4 It should be emphasized that we focused on these species because of their acute reaction to the vaccination. Hybrid tilapia, the main species cultured in Israel, doesn't show any reactions, like side effects, to the vaccination.…”

“…If one has concerns about granulomas following vaccination, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance. 4 The Israeli aquaculture has developed very successfully over a long period. However, further development has been restrained for several reasons: 1. reaching the upper limits in high stocking rates of fish in ponds and 2. the acute limitation of water and land for aquaculture.…”