The Disease Control Agency (hereafter referred to as the DCA) announced today (the 12th) that in response to a recent study published in the international journal *Nature Microbiology* reporting the presence of the “Covert Mortality Noda Virus (CMNV)” in aquatic animals in the wild, which is suspected to have cross‑species transmission capability and may cause humans to develop “Persistent High Intraocular Pressure Viral Anterior Uveitis (POH‑VAU)”, the agency, to safeguard public health, proactively convened a meeting with relevant medical societies and expert scholars on May 4 to discuss and establish a testing mechanism.
The DCA explained that CMNV has been classified by the World Organisation for Animal Health as an emerging infectious disease, and infection cases have been reported in shrimp farms in China and Thailand; to date, only China has reported suspected human CMNV infection cases worldwide. The study hypothesizes that human infection with CMNV may be associated with handling or consuming raw fresh aquatic products, but further evidence is needed to confirm whether the virus can effectively infect human ocular tissue. Major international public health agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. CDC, and the European ECDC have not received any related human case reports and have not listed it as an urgent public health threat. Moreover, regarding domestic surveillance, the Agricultural Ministry’s Plant and Animal Health Inspection Agency has, over the past five years (2021–2026), monitored post‑submission cases of white shrimp and the national animal disease surveillance network, and has not detected CMNV. Comprehensive assessment indicates that the risk of domestic outbreak transmission is extremely low. Nevertheless, to prevent potential issues, the DCA has established a specimen testing mechanism and today issued a circular to the medical community, urging clinicians to remain vigilant; if encountering cases with suspected symptoms, they should intensify inquiries about exposure to aquatic animals and seafood, and, when necessary, collect clinical specimens for testing.
The DCA emphasized that the agricultural and health sectors will continue to maintain close communication, strengthen monitoring of domestic and international epidemic trends and transmission risks, and implement an integrated prevention approach. The DCA also reiterates that travelers to China and Thailand should pay special attention to preventing CMNV, ensure seafood is thoroughly cooked, and that high‑risk groups (such as those with compromised immunity or chronic illnesses) avoid consuming raw seafood. When handling fresh aquatic products, it is recommended to wear gloves; if there are cuts on the hands, avoid direct contact with raw ingredients, and wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling to reduce infection risk.
Source: Disease Control Agency
Data compiled: Sensory Management Office
