The Aquatic Animal Health Code

The OIE Aquatic Animal Health Code establishes standards for the improvement of aquatic animal health worldwide. The Aquatic Code also includes standards for the welfare of farmed fish and use of antimicrobial agents in aquatic animals. The purpose of this guide is to advise the Competent Authorities in OIE Member Countries on how to use the Aquatic Code.
Competent Authorities should use the standards in the Aquatic Code to develop measures for prevention including biosecurity at aquaculture establishments, early detection, reporting, control or eradication of pathogenic agents in aquatic animals (amphibians, crustaceans, fish and molluscs) and preventing their spread via international trade in aquatic animals and aquatic animal products, while avoiding unjustified sanitary barriers to trade.
The standards in the Aquatic Code are based on the most recent scientific and technical information and are adopted by the World Assembly of Delegates. Correctly applied, they protect aquatic animal health during the production and trade in aquatic animals and aquatic animal products as well as the welfare of farmed fish.