Disease is a major welfare and production challenge in aquaculture. Prevention through vaccination and biosecurity reduces both suffering and antibiotic reliance.
Disease prevention is one of the most impactful interventions for fish welfare in aquaculture. Diseased fish suffer from chronic inflammation, reduced immune function, and behavioural changes indicating poor welfare. Norwegian salmon aquaculture demonstrates what is achievable: a comprehensive vaccination program virtually eliminated antibiotic use while dramatically reducing disease-related welfare impacts. Biosecurity — through hygiene protocols, equipment disinfection, and movement controls — prevents disease introduction. Fallow periods between production cycles allow pathogen levels to decline in farm environments. The combination of vaccination, biosecurity, selective breeding for disease resistance, and good husbandry provides the strongest foundation for fish health and welfare in commercial aquaculture.