Health Warning: Shellfish Still Affected By Toxins

Health Warning: Shellfish Still Affected By Toxins

“Continuing high levels of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) mean that local shellfish should remain off the menu” according to Medical Officer of Health, Dr Phil Shoemack.

The concentration of PSP first exceeded the national guideline level just prior to Christmas and weekly testing since then confirms the problem has not gone away.

“Because of the persistent high levels of toxins, the health warning advising people not to collect or consume local shellfish remains in place” says Dr Shoemack.

The affected length of coastline is from Tairua Harbour on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula right across the Bay of Plenty, including Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries and eastward as far as the mouth of the Whakatane River.”

There have been no recent reports of people becoming unwell after eating affected shellfish but earlier this year Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service received several reports of illness including two individuals who were admitted to hospital within hours of eating contaminated shellfish.

“People are advised to practice caution and avoid eating locally harvested shellfish while the toxin levels are still high,” says Dr Shoemack.

Symptoms can include numbness and tingling around the mouth as well as more severe neurological problems such as muscle weakness, unco-ordination, and problems breathing. Anyone with such symptoms should seek medical attention.

The health warning affects all shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops, catseyes and kina (sea urchin). Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking.

Weekly sampling will continue along the coast and the public will be advised as soon as the situation changes. For all health warning updates across the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts call 0800 221 555. Further information is available at www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.nz.

ENDS

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