Bacterial Infections Can Be Caused By A Variety Of Causes, But The Most Common Are Caused By Poor Handling, Storage, And Cleaning Of Fish, According To The Cdc

Bacterial infections can stem from many causes, even combinations of contributing causes. Healthy fish have a strong, natural resistance to bacteria. They can usually fight it off on their own. A weak, sick and/or stressed fish can be very susceptible to this illness. The tiny open pores of the lateral line or open wounds are most often the entry point. Bacteria can bloom and overrun even the healthiest of fish. White cloudy water with sores on the fish can also be signs of this problem. A secondary infection is a secondary infection resulting from another disease. In many cases, the fish has been cured of the parasite, but bacteria can spread from the fish's fins. Red fins are often a sign of "ammonia burn". This can be caused by poor packing procedures during shipping. Abdominal swelling or bloating is usually a symptom of a bladder infection. Many bacteria are naturally resistant to specific drugs. Thus, using the proper type of antibiotic is of the utmost importance. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, ones that kill both gram-negative and positive bacteria, such as neomycin, chloramphenicol, nitrofurazone (Furan-2) based products, skin absorbed kanamycin sulfate-based antibiotics such as Kanacyn/K-Mycin are usually effective treatments. . . .