Aquatic animal disease found in P.E.I. oyster samples

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has found Dermo, an aquatic animal disease, in oyster samples collected in Egmont Bay, P.E.I.

Dermo, also known as Perkinsosis, does not pose a health risk to people, but it can decrease growth rates for oysters and increase their mortality, according to a news release from the agency.

This is the first confirmed case of Dermo on P.E.I.

“To limit the spread of the disease, the CFIA, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Province of PEI are working together with partners to monitor the situation and take necessary action,” the release reads. “These actions are part of the Government of Canada’s One Health approach to prepare for, detect, and manage animal diseases.”

The agency will apply movement controls to oysters in the area, investigate the possible source of the detection and monitor mollusc health.

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