The pepino mosaic virus (PepMV) can cause pepino mosaic disease in tomatoes and some other solanaceous plants including potatoes and eggplants.
PepMV is spread on seed, stalks, and leaves and through plant to plant contact and propagation. It is also transmitted very easily on contaminated tools, hands and clothing. Bumblebees used as pollinators are also known to spread the disease.
It was detected in tomato plants at four Auckland commercial tomato growing greenhouse facilities in April and May 2021. Commercial growers are advised to closely monitor their crops for signs of the virus.