First HLB detections in Uruguay

The first cases of plants with HLB disease have been confirmed in Uruguay, according to a health emergency note released by the country’s Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries. Plants with symptoms were found in a residence in the city of Bella Unión. After laboratory analysis, the presence of the disease was confirmed. Inspections were carried out in the homes and surroundings where the outbreak was identified, and no new positive cases were detected.

As a result, measures were adopted to prevent the spread of the disease. Measures included constant monitoring of homes and farms with citrus plants and following an action plan developed over 10 years ago. The action plan between public and private institutions is for the management and control of HLB.

The citrus sector represents a very important social and economic asset for Uruguay, generating around 17,000 direct and indirect jobs and exporting more than $8 million worth of products annually.

Source: citrusindustry.net

Publication date: Thu 16 Mar 2023