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Persistence of MS-2 Bacteriophage Within Eastern Oysters
David H Kingsley1, Haiqiang Chen2, Gloria K Meade3
1U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Food Safety and Intervention Technologies Research Unit, James W. W. Baker Center, Delaware State University, Dover, DE, 19901, USA. david.kingsley@ars.usda.gov.
Food and Environmental Virology
|August 24, 2017
Summary
Cooler water temperatures significantly extend the survival of male-specific bacteriophages (MS-2) in oysters. This finding is crucial for using MS-2 as an indicator of human enteric viruses in shellfish.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Food safety science
- Aquaculture health
Background:
- Male-specific bacteriophages (MS-2) are proposed as indicators for human enteric viruses in shellfish.
- Assessing the persistence of these indicator phages is vital for shellfish safety and public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of water temperature on the persistence of MS-2 in Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica).
- To provide data for regulatory agencies regarding indicator phage behavior in shellfish.
Main Methods:
- Oysters were exposed to MS-2 and maintained in UV-sterilized seawater at different temperatures (7°C, 15°C, 24°C) for up to 6 weeks.
- Weekly assessments of viable MS-2 levels were conducted.
- Temporal survival data were analyzed using linear and nonlinear Weibull models.
Main Results:
- Cooler temperatures (7°C and 15°C) significantly enhanced MS-2 persistence in oyster tissues compared to warmer temperatures (24°C).
- At 3 weeks, log PFU reductions were 2.28 (7°C), 2.90 (15°C), and 4.57 (24°C).
- The Weibull model provided the best fit for observed MS-2 reductions over time.
Conclusions:
- Water temperature is a critical factor influencing the decay rate of MS-2 in oysters.
- Findings offer a guideline for regulatory agencies on the environmental impact on indicator phage viability.
- Understanding MS-2 persistence aids in refining shellfish monitoring strategies for viral contamination.
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