Hampshire’s Primerdesign launches detection kit for norovirus in oysters

Primerdesign, an Eastleigh-based supplier of real-time PCR kits and reagents, has launched the genesig Easy_oys Detection Kit for norovirus in oysters.

The kit enables ‘rapid and reliable’ onsite detection of norovirus pathogens in oyster tissue.

It can be used to identify contamination points across the production line, helping to reduce public health risk and minimise shellfish farm closures.

Norovirus is a major cause of viral gastroenteritis, with data from the Food Standards Agency showing that foodborne transmission is responsible for an estimated 16 per cent of cases in the UK.

Human sewage discharge around oyster beds results in bio-accumulation of the virus in their digestive glands, with more than 500 genome copies per gram of norovirus GI / GII presenting a major risk of infection when consumed by humans.

Primerdesign has identified a growing need for methods to detect and quantify viruses in bivalve shellfish to control and risk manage potential outbreaks and spread.

Its testing kit, developed in collaboration with oyster farmers and the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, delivers results within four hours.

Dr Stephanie Anderson, product manager at Primerdesign, said: “Many farmers are under pressure to test for norovirus in order to prevent an outbreak and risk consequent closure.

“However, the lack of approved commercially available tests currently available in the UK and limited accredited testing facilities often results in delays, presenting a significant challenge to the industry.

“We’re proud to offer our new genesig Easy_oys norovirus kit.

“The workflow offers a rapid, specific and user-friendly virus monitoring system that delivers results in just a matter of hours on site, providing the industry a vital tool to safeguard oyster quality from farm to plate.”