Fresh shrimps sold in supermarkets in southeastern Queensland have been detected for the white spot virus, reigniting a warning of local inventory risks.
Wayne Knibb, a professor at Sunshine Coast University in Japan, bought some shrimps from 10 retail stores and tested them for the virus, and found that 1/3 of the shrimp had infected or were carrying the white spot virus.
"obviously, if we can find 30% of the infected samples in a very limited number of samples, are linked to or are in contact with the virus, then obviously a lot of shrimp are infected with the virus," he said. "Professor Knibb told ABC's Four Corners show..
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White spot virus shrimp is deadly, but harmless to humans.
The Queensland shrimp industry was hit hard by news that the white spot virus had spread in the open waters of Moreton Bay last year, with Queensland's 360 million Australian dollar shrimp industry hit hard.
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Once a white spot virus is discovered, a restriction command is executed immediately to prevent the virus from spreading.
Aquaculture and fishermen should immediately report to Queensland Biosafety Agency (Tel: 1325 23) as soon as any abnormal signs are found.