Unsafe levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poison detected in Orcas Island shellfish

For speedy launch: July 28, 2022   (22-111)

Contact: DOH Communications

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Division of Well being (DOH) is urging folks to keep away from consuming oysters and clams harvested from Buck Bay on Orcas Island in San Juan County on July 26-27, following the detection of excessive ranges of Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) within the shellfish. The shellfish have been bought on to customers from Buck Bay Shellfish Farm retail market and restaurant on the island.

DOH detected the PSP by way of biotoxin monitoring – the shellfish examined had PSP ranges practically 4 occasions the allowable stage for harvest. As of July 27, there have been no studies of sickness related to the recalled shellfish. Buck Bay Rising Space is closed till additional discover.

Paralytic Shellfish Poison

PSP is a naturally occurring marine biotoxin that’s produced by some species of microscopic algae. Shellfish eat these algae and might retain the toxin. The toxin will not be destroyed by cooking or freezing.

PSP signs can happen inside minutes to a couple hours of consuming contaminated shellfish. Dying from PSP has occurred in lower than half-hour. Signs can embrace:

• Tingling and numbness of the lips, tongue, fingers, and toes.
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Lack of coordination, problem talking and swallowing, and complete muscular paralysis with respiratory arrest (in extreme instances).

In case you have gentle signs, name your well being care supplier instantly. If signs are extreme, name 911 or go to the emergency room instantly.

Present biotoxin closures are listed on DOH’s Shellfish Security Map. For a recorded listing of areas closed for biotoxins, name the biotoxin/crimson tide hotline at 1-800-562-5632.

The DOH web site is your supply for a wholesome dose of data. Discover us on Fb and follow us on Twitter. Join the DOH weblog, Public Well being Connection. 

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