Oysters struck by outbreak of ostreid herpes virus
Fourteen cases around the country have been reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) by the Department of Agriculture.
Herpes virus has also affected aquaculture in France and Britain this year.
In 14 bays in Ireland, mortalities have been considerable, particularly in seed. The disease has stemmed from introduction of stock from an infected area, or latent infections in existing populations.
Although mortalities now appear to be at an end, reinfection of stocks which will be introduced between now and next summer is anticipated when temperatures begin to climb again.
Mortality ranging from 30% to 100% has been recorded at Castlemaine Harbour and Cahersiveen, Co Kerry; Lough Foyle, Lough Swilly, Dungloe, Donegal Bay, Trawbrega Bay and Loughreas Beag, Co Donegal; Clew Bay and Achill Sound, Co Mayo; Ballymacoda Bay, Co Cork; Dungarvan and Woodstown Strand, Co Waterford; and Carlingford Bay, Co Louth.
Movement control is the main action being taken against the disease.
