New Brunswick has prohibited the movement of oysters in the Spence Cove area along the province’s east coast.
The provincial surveillance program recently detected the possible presence of a disease known as MSX in oysters.
Samples were collected for analysis by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the federal regulatory lead for animal disease issues.
“Our department will continue to work collaboratively with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency throughout this investigation,” Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Pat Finnigan said in a news release.
“The department is committed to keeping industry stakeholders informed and ensuring that they have access to timely updates and essential information.”
MSX, or multinucleate sphere unknown, is caused by a protozoan and can lead to high levels of mortality in oyster populations.
Officials said it does not pose any risk to human health and affected oysters are safe to consume.
While test results are pending, the department’s chief veterinary officer of aquaculture has ordered a quarantine in the area, prohibiting the movement of oysters.
“We recognize the uncertainty surrounding the full economic impact of this situation and we are prepared to work with affected producers as more information becomes available,” said Finnigan.
MSX has previously been found in oysters in Prince Edward Island and certain areas of Cape Breton.
Spence Cove is located not far from the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island.
