Since its detection at Port Fairy in early 2006, the abalone virus has spread west to Whites Beach (detected November 2007) and east to White Cliffs (Johanna Beach) (detected November 2008). Any sightings of possibly diseased abalone outside of these locations should be reported to the Virus hotline on 5561 9997.
Abalone Virus Information
The abalone virus is a herpes-like virus known as ganglioneuritis. It attacks the nervous system of the abalone, causing the abalone to become weak and die within about 4 days of being infected. The virus can transmit from one abalone to another through direct contact or the water column. Infected abalone are easy to remove from rocks, even after being tapped several times. Dead and dying abalone are often seen in the same area. More information on the virus can be found at the following link:
How to avoid spreading the virus
It is important that divers do not inadvertantly spread the virus from one location to another. The virus can survive outside of abalone, eg. on a wetsuit. As such, all dive gear should be disinfected after each dive by washing in soapy water, even if you think that the virus was not present at your dive site. If you are diving several sites from a boat, take a spray bottle of soapy water and give your dive gear a good spray in between dives.
Abalone shell and gut should not be returned to the ocean, as this may spread the virus. Instead, put shell and gut in your rubbish bin.
Closed zone
The area from the western carpark of Killarney beach through to the Crags is currently closed to the taking of abalone, molluscs and sea urchins. This closure will remain in place until at least April 2008.
