Update on the situation of Blueberry scorch virus in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, Blueberry scorch virus (Carlavirus, BlScV – EPPO A2 List) was first reported in November 2008 (see EPPO RS 2008/204). During a specific survey, BlScV was detected in 1 Vaccinium corymbosum plant which was subsequently destroyed. Since that time, annual surveys have been carried out and a PRA was completed in October 2012. At the beginning of 2013, BlScV was detected in 1 plant grown in another company. As the source of this infection could not be linked to a recent introduction, it was assumed that BlScV has been present in the Netherlands for some time, although at a low level. Based on the conclusions of the Dutch PRA, the NPPO decided that certification programmes were more appropriate than phytosanitary regulations to control this virus. A certification system for the production of healthy planting material of V. corymbosum has been set up by Naktuinbouw in the Netherlands. This certification system includes a zero tolerance for BlScV, as well as for a number of other viruses infecting V. corymbosum.
The pest status of Blueberry scorch virus in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Present, few occurrences.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2013-11).
Pest Risk Analysis Blueberry scorch virus, October 2012. http://www.nvwa.nl/onderwerpen/english/dossier/pest-risk-analysis/evaluation-of-pest-risks