The number of farms in the Netherlands infected with the Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) rose to 23. Four new infections were found, while five growers were released. This is shown by figures from the NVWA, released on 29 December 2020.
New municipalities with an infection in the ToBRFV record are Steenbergen, Zuidplas and Westvoorne, with all one infection. Compared to the last official update of 27 August 2020, the other municipalities remained the same in terms of contamination number. Lansingerland was added as a municipality with infections soon after publication.
Westland is now known to have a total of 8 infections, as 1 grower was declared 'free', while another grower was declared infected.
The situation as of 29 December 2020 is therefore as follows:
8 in the municipality of Westland
5 in the municipality of Hollands Kroon
2 in the municipality of Lansingerland
1 in municipality Reimerswaal
1 in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer
1 in the municipality of Horst aan de Maas
1 in the municipality of Goeree Overflakkee
1 in the municipality of Brielle
1 in municipality Steenbergen
1 in municipality Zuidplas
1 in Westvoorne municipality
Reporting obligation
Since 1 November 2019, the ToBRFV has been classified by the European Commission as a mandatory control organism (quarantine organism). Therefore, anyone who suspects the presence of this virus is obliged to report it. If they don't, this is considered a violation and the NVWA (Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority) will take measures.
The virus causes serious damage to paprika and tomato crops. However, it is not dangerous for humans.