Pilchard herpes virus genetic material detected in sardines – SABC News – Breaking news, special reports, world, business, sport coverage of all South African current events. Africa’s news leader.
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment says laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of pilchard herpes virus (PHV) genetic material in sardines sampled along the West Coast.
Scientists are still investigating whether the virus caused the recent mass deaths.
The department says tests have found no toxins associated with harmful algal blooms.
It has also advised the public to avoid consuming or collecting dead or dying fish.
Laboratory sequencing has confirmed the presence of pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) genetic material in sampled sardines, as investigations continue into the cause of recent sardine mortalities along South Africa’s West Coast. https://t.co/HwoSmJ4kaN#GovZAUpdates pic.twitter.com/Zm5G6NNPYu
— @SAgovnews (@SAgovnews) August 14, 2026