What is the difference between tests for Norovirus and tests for faecal coliforms?
Water samples are regularly and routinely sent to local laboratories for bacterial analysis – including faecal coliforms – with turnaround of results occurring in a few days. Unfortunately faecal coilforms are not considered to be a reliable indicator for the presence of Norovirus. Viruses are must more difficult to test. Norovirus testing in oysters is particularly difficult and can only be performed in specialist laboratories. Until recently oyster samples had to be sent to New Zealand for testing, but a new facility is being set up in Adelaide. To date it has taken 1 to 2 months to get norovirus test results back from the lab. Where are the testing facilities that check for Norovirus in oysters? Fortunately, Dr Catherine McLeod, Senior Scientist (Shellfish Food Safety) with the South Australian Research and Development Institute, is undertaking research into the problem and is now establishing testing facilities in Adelaide. Dr McLeod is an expert in norovirus in shellfish and is as
