Design of a detection survey for Ostreid herpesvirus-1 using hydrodynamic dispersion models to determine epidemiological units

Using Ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1) as a case study, this paper considers a survey design methodology for an aquatic animal pathogen that incorporates the concept of biologically independent epidemiological units. Hydrodynamically-modelled epidemiological units are used to divide marine areas into sensible sampling units for detection surveys of waterborne diseases. In the aquatic environment it is difficult to manage disease at the animal level, hence management practices are often aimed at a group of animals sharing a similar risk. Using epidemiological units is a way to define these groups, based on a similar level of probability of exposure based on the modelled potential spread of a viral particle via coastal currents, that can help inform management decisions.