Oyster parasite discovered in Kent

Inspectors from the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) have confirmed the presence of the parasite Bonamia ostreae in a bed of native oysters. Movement controls has been implemented to ensure maximum protection against further spread of the disease. The controls affect live shellfish such as oysters, clams, mussels and scallops which were to be re-immersed in water.

Defra said it did not expect the control to affect commercial activities and the fish could still be eaten.

The Bonamia ostreae parasite has no implications for human health, but can cause a sudden high death rate in oyster beds. It is widespread in native oysters in continental Europe. It also occurs in some oyster growing areas in England. Controls have prevented further spread of the disease in Britain since 1993, until now

Defra said scientific advice and practical experience indicated that it was not possible to eradicate the organism once it had been discovered in an area.