2025

The European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) for Foodborne Viruses would like to invite you to participate in two upcoming proficiency testing schemes.

PT schemes are designed for (1) qualitative detection of norovirus GI, GII and HAV in strawberries based on ISO 15216-2 and (2) quantification of norovirus GI, GII and HAV in oysters based on ISO 15216-1.
The tests will focus on the following matrices:

1. EFV 14 - Strawberries (Qualitative Detection):
Preliminary dispatch date: 12 May 2025

  • Final dispatch details will be confirmed by April 2025

2. EFV 15 - Oysters (Quantification):
Preliminary dispatch date: November 2025

  • Final dispatch details will be confirmed by October 2025.

Key Details:

  • Test Material: Spiked viruses including cultured hepatitis A virus strain HM 175/18f and norovirus-positive fecal samples.

  • Extraction Efficiency and Inhibition: Laboratories are required to use EC-RNA and a process control virus to evaluate extraction efficiency and inhibition. If you do not have access to EC-RNA or mengovirus, these can be provided upon request. Please note that mengovirus is classified as a GMO, and you must have the appropriate procedures and permissions to handle GMOs in your laboratory.

  • Quantification Standards: Laboratories participating in the oyster PT can request quantification standards in advance. While you may use your own standards, it is recommended to use the EURL-provided standards in parallel to facilitate comparison and harmonization across laboratories.

Participation and Registration:

If you wish to participate, please complete the electronic registration form by 4 March 2025. Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive it within a few minutes (including checking your spam folder), please repeat the registration process or contact ramia.molin@slv.se immediately.

Confirmation of Receipt:

Respond to this mail to confirm that you have received the invitation from EURL.

Additional Information:

Participation in the proficiency testing is provided free of charge for National Reference Laboratories (NRLs) for foodborne viruses. Final reports will be prepared and shared with participating laboratories and the Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE).

Best regards,

EURL director EURL PT organizer
Magnus Simonsson Ramia Molin
magnus.simonsson@slv.se ramia.molin@slv.se
Reviewed 2025-01-29