Validation and implementation of rapid test kits for detection of OsHV-1

Opportunity for

• Solution providers, innovators, research providers and policy makers to build on outputs of research for validation and implementation of rapid test kits for detection of OsHV-1

Opportunity description

Industry challenge: Following the outbreak of Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS) in the Port River, South Australia in summer 2017-18, a need was identified for rapid diagnostic technology for OsHV-1, the causative agent of POMS.

Tracing and surveillance activities previously deployed in markets including Tasmania and South Australia required substantial follow-up and surveillance which was slow and expensive. The Australian Pacific oyster aquaculture industries and state governments expressed a need for more cost-effective surveillance options for monitoring disease in affected areas.

Opportunity background: A method was developed for rapid field detection of OsHV-1, which also has the benefit of being able to sync results to the Biomeme Cloud Portal, allowing results to be viewed in real-time as the assay is being performed in the field. The approach developed is inexpensive and easy to use, with consumables and reagents required to run the assay provided in the kits.

Use of this system could facilitate more effective emergency responses to POMS outbreaks by providing rapid field diagnostic capability and improve disease management by expediting batch testing in farm areas to inform livestock translocations.

Current opportunity: Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) is seeking engagement from organisations with an interest in building on the findings of this research to make use of this rapid test for detection of OsHV-1 more widely utilised. 'Enquire now' to discuss potential approaches with FRDC.