Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) quantification of norovirus

Norovirus is the leading cause of gastrointestinal disease in the world. Bivalve shellfish grown in environments impacted with municipal wastewater may contain norovirus. Where such shellfish are consumed raw, such as oysters, this can present a risk to consumers.

The Marine Institute is accredited for the use of an internationally recognised standard method for norovirus quantification in oysters. Since 2018, the Marine Institute has provided a norovirus testing service for Irish oyster producers under a programme funded by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM). While there are currently no recognised regulatory limits for norovirus, testing conducted at the Marine Institute allows oyster producers to make informed risk management decisions to produce the safest product possible. Norovirus analysis also supports the competent authorities in Ireland to investigate suspected outbreaks associated with shellfish.

An Acute Infectious Gastroenteritis Outbreak Linked to Oyster Consumption report.

Anyone interested in finding out more information on norovirus testing at the Marine Institute should contact Sinead Keaveney (sinead.keaveney@marine.ie)