DISINFECTION OF FISHING GEAR
Important information: The most significant risk of IHN transmission to the Faroe Islands is posed by gear, which can easily be transported between countries through, but not limited to, fishing rods, rubber boots, etc. We, therefore, urge anyone intending to fish in the Faroe Islands to wash and disinfect their fishing rods and any other gear or equipment before travelling to the Faroe Islands.
Anglers travelling to the Faroe Islands are no longer required to have a veterinary certificate for cleaning and disinfecting fishing equipment.
Before arriving at the Faroe Islands, all fishing equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and properly treated to kill fish pathogens.
This can be done by using one of the following methods:
- Rinse in tapwater and keep at a minimum temperature of 20°C for at least two days after drying
- Rinse in tapwater and then dry and heat for at least one hour at a temperature above 60°C
- Rinse in tap water, then immerse in a disinfecting solution for at least ten minutes. Disinfecting agents can be Virkon S or Halamid.
Read the official letter from the Faroese Food and Veterinary Authority here.
When fishing in the Faroe Islands, precautions should be taken to prevent the spread of diseases from saltwater to freshwater and between freshwater catches.
For further information, contact the Faroese Food and Veterinary Authority:
Smyrilsvegur 7, 2
FO-100 Tórshavn
Phone: +298 556400
e-mail: hfs@hfs.fo