During this time, there would be teams working in feasibility studies on whether it’s possible to eradicate the crustacean white spot syndrome viral disease.
If eradication is not feasible, then a national decision would need to be made, with support for developing a national management program.
Resourcing would be adjusted and likely reduce, as the ‘transition to management plan’ occurs.
A management plan would focus on limiting the spread of the WSSV and minimising the impact on affected industries.
This work would include identifying key areas where further research and information is required to improve management outcomes and market access.
Additional surveillance and testing of WSSV would take place within the current control zone to provide confidence that the WSSV is not present in Australia. The government may use new technology such as environmental DNA (eDNA). This will provide quantitative data surveillance of wild crustaceans. And this is a technique pioneered by our colleague, Dr Giana from The Fish Vet team for her PhD.
The Quarantine Area Notice to minimise the risk of spreading WSSV within the state, including treatment of commercial shrimp would remain in place.
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Yours sincerely,
Dr Richmond Loh
DipProjMgt, BSc, BVMS, MPhil (Pathology), MANZCVS (Aquatics& Pathobiology), CertAqV, NATA Signatory.
Aquatic Veterinarian & Veterinary Pathologist.
PERTH | MELBOURNE | SYDNEY | TOWNSVILLE | BRIBIE ISLAND.
THE FISH VET – AUSTRALIA.
Aquatic Veterinary Medical & Diagnostic Services.
Web: http://www.thefishvet.com.au
Ph: +61 421 822 383
Mail: PO Box 5164, East Victoria Park, WA 6981, Australia.
