Trout threatened by disease found in two Upstate counties

The presence of disease found in four streams in Pickens and Greenville counties has the state DNR worried that the whirling disease pathogen could cause 90% or greater mortality of young rainbow trout and have serious impacts to wild and hatchery trout populations.  The disease is caused by the microscopic parasite Myxobulus cerebralis, which damages cartilage and skeletal issue in trout, causing diseased fish to swim in a “whirling” motion.  It is said to be not harmful to humans.  According to the DNR, a recent inspection at the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery in Oconee County proved negative for whirling disease and other new, exotic pathogens.  Anglers are reminded to NOT stock or move trout around between bodies of water or release or dispose of them anywhere other than the location where they were caught.