Brussels, 13/10/2015 (Agence Europe) - In a context of heightened vigilance, a myrtle-leaf milkwort (Polygala myrtifolia) in a shrub-land area in the commune of Nice has been identified as showing possible symptoms of Xyella fastidiosa.
The presence of the bacterium, which has devastated olive groves in Italy, was confirmed on 12 October. Given the strong epidemiological similarity with cases found in Corsica since the end of July, “the state authorities in the Alpes-Maritimes have, without waiting for confirmation of the case, implemented measures to prevent the spread of the bacterium (vector identification, disinsectisation, protection of plants under netting)”, the French Agriculture Ministry has announced. A survey of susceptible plants within a radius of 100 metres around the plant began at the start of October in order to enable better management in the event of confirmation of contamination by the bacterium. Eradication and buffer zones have been defined. The following measures have been implemented immediately: identification and digging out of susceptible plants, restriction on the movement of plants and close official monitoring. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)