The shrimp industry has been beset by many devastating diseases in the last three decades, which has caused severe production and economic losses and even caused the collapse of the industry in some countries. Recently, a shrimp viral disease is threatening the shrimp industry in our region. The virus, formally named as Decapod iridescent virus 1 (DIV1) was first detected as early as 2014. Targeted surveillance in China (People’s Rep. of) in 2017 and 2018 detected the virus in 11 of 16 provinces. In June 2020, Chinese Taipei reported the presence of the disease in crayfish and shrimp farms through OIE WAHIS. The disease meets the OIE definition of an ‘emerging disease’ and, as such, Members shall report it in accordance with Article 1.1.4 of the Aquatic Code. Infection with DIV1 is listed in the OIE/NACA quarterly aquatic animal disease report (QAAD report).
While movement restrictions are still in place making any physical travel difficult, we organised OIE Regional Virtual Meeting on DIV1 on 20th Aug from 4pm-6:30pm Tokyo time to share information on DIV1 current situation, impacts, risk management measures and early detection. There was a discussion session for regional preparedness to identify area for cooperation.
The following OIE Reference Laboratories may provide potential assistance with supply of positive control for DIV1 laboratory diagnosis.
