Monitoring viral contamination of molluscan shellfish.

Abstract: This chapter focuses on the enteric viruses, hepatitis A virus and norovirus, responsible for the main outbreaks linked to shellfish consumption. One major drawback for viral contamination estimation in shellfish is the lack of indicator or standardised method, preventing systematic control. After a review of the main sources of pollution, we identified the conditions responsible for shellfish contamination. This will help to set up potential strategies to reduce contamination in harvesting areas such as the limitation of faecal input or the improvement of tools for management. As knowledge is progressing risk management, strategies will help to protect the consumer and will also led to improve regulation. Rapid alert systems need to be set up to prevent coastal area contamination and promising examples of coastal management have proved their efficacy to reduce faecal load and thus, improve water quality. Shellfish have long been recognised as being beneficial to human health and this benefit should also be taken into consideration in managing coastal areas and preserving the water quality.