Do we need a rapid pond side koi herpesvirus (KHV) test?

Recently, I was asked whether there is a need in Australia to have the FASTest KOI HV ( KOI HERPESVIRUS RAPID TEST ).

My response:

KHV is currently exotic to Australia but there are 2 potential ways it’ll inevitably establish in Australia.

1. The Australian Animal Health Laboratories (AAHL in Geelong) is studying the virus for use as a biocontrol of carp.
2. Enthusiasts illegally importing fish.

There is no need for it now, but in the future, it’ll be useful to have.

Additionally, because KHV is an OIE listed disease and Notifiable in Australia, a positive result (regardless of whether it is a true positive or a false positive) there would be potential significant political and economic implications. Thus, I suspect that the first definitive diagnosis needs to be conducted by the government laboratories at least, if not, by the AAHL.

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Yours sincerely,

Dr Richmond Loh