An article on the topic has been prepared on the initiative of The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in response to the need of clear communication regarding covid-19 and concerns about potential contamination of aquatic animals used as food. Edgar Brun, Department Manager Fish Health and Welfare, has participated as a Norwegian representative.
Coronavirus is only reported to infect mammals. Currently there is no evidence to suggest that SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes covid-19, can infect aquatic food (fish, crustaceans, molluscs, amphibians). Therefore, these animals do not play an epidemiological role in spreading covid-19 to humans.
Aquatic food animals and their products, like all other surfaces, can potentially be contaminated with SARS-CoV-2, especially when handled by people infected with the virus. However, with proper food handling and hygiene, the likelihood of contamination of aquatic animals or their products with SARS-CoV-2 should be negligible.
The article is published on the Asian Fishery Organization page.