How do you manage a plant virus that is on everything, everywhere, all at once? Try the Swiss cheese approach.

Adrian Fox from FERA Science (UK’s national reference lab for plant health) joined us online to share his research and practical learnings to provide key insights on managing Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).

You can watch the presentation again here and find a fact sheet here.

And here is a summary of the Q&A.

Thanks again to Adrian for taking the time to share his research, knowledge and experience.

Key Characteristics of ToBRFV

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus is a highly stable and contagious plant virus that infects tomato, capsicum and chilli.  It has spread globally since its discovery in 2014-2015.  Research conducted by Adrian’s group and collaborating researchers has found that the virus is:

• Extremely stable: Survives on hands for over 2 hours, on glasshouse surfaces for up to 6 months.
• Highly transmissible: Spreads through plant contact, tools, clothing, pollen on bees, and seed
• Environmental persistence: Found in irrigation water, soil, and even airborne particles

Adrian says the virus may be “everywhere, all at once,” but with diligent application of layered biosecurity measures, it can be effectively managed.  This is where the “Swiss Cheese” Approach comes in.  No single control measure provides 100% protection. Success requires layering multiple imperfect control measures:

• Rigorous hygiene protocols
• Zonal working systems
• Equipment disinfection
• Staff training and access control
• Environmental monitoring

Watch the video to learn more.