Sleeping disease virus

Also known as: A subtype of Salmon alphavirus

Sleeping disease virus is a subtype of Salmon alphavirus affecting rainbow trout, particularly in freshwater recirculating systems. Clinical symptoms include muscle necrosis, anorexia, and abnormal resting behavior, where fish lie immobile on the tank bottom. It is often managed through improved biosecurity and vaccination strategies.

Distribution: Europe
Hosts: Rainbow trout
Detection Methods: RT-PCR; histopathology
Target Tissue: Skeletal muscle, pancreas, heart