The Tasmanian Government continues to work collaboratively with Oysters Tasmania to investigate the POMS virus.
The priority remains identifying how this virus got here, where it is located and restricting any potential movement.
Today, a Control Area has been declared, which prohibits the movement of live oysters and associated equipment between growing areas. It is however important to note that movements for human consumption and testing are exempt. A voluntary industry standstill has been in place leading these restrictions coming into operation.
The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment is working with the industry to undertake surveillance at oyster growing areas around the state.
Testing of samples at the Department’s Animal Health Laboratories has confirmed the POMS virus at Upper Pittwater, Lower Pittwater, Pipe Clay Lagoon and Blackman Bay.
Results of testing on samples from Little Swanport are negative at this stage.
In addition to the ongoing surveillance and testing program, the Department together with the industry, is also undertaking traceback of movements from infected areas to determine if the origin of the event can be identified.
I applaud the industry for acting quickly and cooperatively on this challenging situation.
This week I will meet with Oysters Tasmania and will discuss the impact on individual growers and the next steps for the industry.
We are continuing to work closely with the industry, but our joint priority right now is the ongoing investigation into this virus.
For the latest information go to DPIPWE’s website: http://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/biosecurity/aquatic-pests-and-diseases/aquatic-biosecurity-threats/poms
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
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