Disease discovery throws N.L. mink industry into turmoil

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has halted the import of live mink after the first discovery of a disease at a commercial farm in the province.

Aleutian disease, which does not affect humans, is common in most mink-producing areas of the world, says the province.The disease can kill animals, and affect reproduction and pelt quality.

Natural Resources Minister Kathy Dunderdale said officials are still trying to determine "the extent of the contamination" in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In a statement, Dunderdale said the virus that causes the disease was foundon oneof 24 mink ranches in the province.

"We know fur producers are experiencing incredible uncertainty and stress right now," Dunderdale said.

"We are doing everything we can to ensure our farmers are informed of the steps being taken and the biosecurity measures they need to put in place to protect their operations.

"It's a major, major setback for our industry, in this province," said Merv Wiseman, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Fur Breeders Association.

"If it is spread to other locations, and we suspect it may be, I would expect that we're talking in the millions [of dollars], if we're going to have to… depopulate and restock."

The government estimates the production value of the industry, which has been growing quickly in recent years, at about $70 million annually.

The government said all animals imported to the province are required to be tested for the disease.

Hugh Whitney, the Newfoundland and Labrador government veterinarian, said he does not yet know how the virus made its way into the province. He said the key concern now is to limit its exposure.

"What we have asked so far is that all farms in the province voluntarily quarantine themselves," Whitney told CBC News.

"So that means that they will not move animals from farm to farm, and will restrict any movement of people to a minimum and will ensure that any equipment is disinfected."