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10:03
Swab Sampling Method for the Detection of Human Norovirus on Surfaces
Published on: February 6, 2017
Norovirus and other human enteric viruses in moroccan shellfish
Laila Benabbes1, Joanna Ollivier, Julien Schaeffer
1Laboratoire de Virologie Médicale, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1, Place Louis Pasteur, 20360, Casablanca, Morocco.
Food and Environmental Virology
|February 16, 2013
Summary
Human enteric viruses, including norovirus and sapovirus, were detected in Moroccan shellfish. This contamination highlights the need for improved shellfish safety measures to protect public health.
Area of Science:
- Food safety
- Virology
- Marine biology
Background:
- Shellfish can act as vectors for human enteric viruses.
- Contamination of shellfish is a significant public health concern, especially in coastal areas with potential sewage influence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and concentration of human enteric viruses in shellfish from Morocco's Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts.
- To identify specific virus types and shellfish species most affected by contamination.
Main Methods:
- Collection of 77 shellfish samples from potentially sewage-contaminated areas.
- Detection and quantification of viruses using molecular methods with extraction efficiency controls.
Main Results:
- Noroviruses (GI and GII) were found in 30% of samples, predominantly in cockles and clams.
- Sapoviruses were detected in 13% of samples, mainly in oysters and clams.
- Hepatitis A virus and enteroviruses were detected at low levels; Norovirus GIV and Aichi virus were not found.
Conclusions:
- Shellfish from Moroccan waters are contaminated with human enteric viruses, posing a risk to consumers.
- Understanding virus levels in shellfish is crucial for enhancing food safety and protecting public health.
- Further studies across different regions are needed to monitor and manage shellfish contamination effectively.
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