A deadly parasitic disease is threatening fish in the Bow River. 

On Monday, September 12th, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed that whirling disease had spread from Johnson Lake in Banff National Park to the Bow River.

"The impact of the disease remains to be seen, but it could be anything from virtually no impact, to a very serious impact," said Roger Ramcharita, Southern Regional Director, Alberta Environment and Parks.

Otherwise known as myxobolus cerebralis, whirling disease is a parasitic disease that targets smaller and younger fish (particularity salmon and trout), and causes them to whirl in the water before dying. 

It was detected in Johnson Lake, which was the first time it was detected in Canada. Officials then started testing near by bodies of water, and found that it had spread to the Bow River.

"We're really disappointed that it was found in the bow system, we have a world class trout fishery here in the Bow, and I think Albertans are really proud of this river and the fish that are in it," said Ramcharita.

The disease can be spread through water equipment such as boats, fishing gear, swimming gear and more. Those who travel to bodies of water outside of the province are urged to clean all water gear before returning.

Officials will continue to test to see if areas down river near Cochrane and Calgary have been contaminated. It is important to note that whirling disease has no affect on humans whatsoever.

If you see fish that show signs of whirling disease, you are encouraged to contact Alberta Environment and Parks at 1-800-222-6514.