Perkinsus marinus causes the condition in both cultured and wild American oysters (Crassostrea virginica).
Dermo does not pose a risk to human health or food safety, but it can cause increased oyster mortality and decreased growth rates.
To limit the spread of the disease, the CFIA, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture are working together with stakeholders to monitor the situation and take necessary action.
In addition to existing robust protective measures and increased animal surveillance, the CFIA, DFO and the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture continue to conduct tracing activities and testing of oysters to gain insight into the presence of Dermo in the area.
At this time, these response measures include:
- Applying movement controls to oysters in the Merigomish area.
- Further investigating the potential source of the detection.
- Engaging scientists, oyster producers and harvesters to continue to monitor mollusc health, including notifying CFIA or the Province of infected oysters, or when decreased rates of growth or increased mortalities are observed.
- Ensuring that information regarding detection and movement control information is available to producers.
