The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the presence of Dermo (also called Perkinsosis) in oyster samples from Egmont Bay. Photo by SaltWire Network /SaltWire NetworkArticle contentSUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. – The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of Dermo (also called Perkinsosis) in oyster samples from Egmont Bay.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentDermo is harmless to humans and does not pose a health risk, but it can cause increased oyster mortality and reduced growth rates. This is the first time Dermo has been detected in P.E.I.Article contentArticle contentSafety measuresArticle contentIn addition to existing safety measures, new ones are being implemented to help prevent the spread of the disease, which can move from oyster to oyster or through contaminated water.Article contentArticle contentNew measures include:Article contentApplying movement controls to oysters in the area.Further investigation into the potential source of the disease.Engaging scientists, producers and harvesters to continue to monitor mollusk health, including notifying CFIA or the province of sick oysters or when decreased rates of growth or increased mortalities are observed.Ensuring that information regarding detection and movement control is available to those involved in the industry.Article contentOyster disease concernsArticle contentThis is the latest concerning development for P.E.I.’s oyster industry, which is already battling the spread of MSX, another oyster disease, discovered in some Island bays last year. Just like Dermo, MSX is also harmless to humans but can negatively impact oysters’ development and increase mortality.Article contentVarious measures have already been put in place to help stop the spread of that disease and monitoring has been increased to track its progress.Article content
Oyster disease Dermo found in P.E.I. samples for first time, preventative measures implemented
