MADISON, Wis. -- Experts on a deadly fish virus gave an update on the fight against the disease to the joint committee on Natural Resources Wednesday at the state Capitol.

Experts weighed in on viral hemorrhagic septicemia and discussed what has been done so far, including emergency rules enacted for boaters, anglers and bait harvesters.

"At this point, we don't believe (VHS) is widespread. There are literally thousands of miles of lakes and rivers that don't have this disease, and it is a worthy objective to try to contain it," said Mike Staggs, VHS response team leader for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Staggs said the containment efforts in 2008 will include extensive testing of waters in the Wisconsin river system.

Fishing is a nearly $3 billion-a-year industry in Wisconsin.