Efforts to stop the spread of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia appear to be paying off.
The fish-killing virus was discovered last year in the Lake Winnebago chain, prompting fears that it could spread quickly. DNR fisheries management director Mike Staggs says that does not appear to be the case though. Tests conducted in 67 bodies of water this spring have shown no new occurrences of VHS anywhere in the state.
Staggs admits it's a little bit surprising. He expected at least a few new bodies of water to show signs of VHS, despite efforts to contain the virus.
The state launched a massive campaign to fight the spread of VHS, including public education and rules limiting the movement of fish and water. Staggs says those efforts seem to have proven effective, and they will continue as the state continues working to contain the virus.
