Shellfish off limits in Snake Bank area of Whangarei Harbour

 

Northland District Health Board's Health Protection Unit advises the public that shellfish (namely cockles) on Snake Bank in the Whangarei Harbour have shown high levels of faecal bacteria during recent microbiological testing.

Accordingly, all commercial cockle harvesting has been halted in this area, as the levels found were above regulatory standards.

The Health Protection Unit therefore also advises the public not to collect or consume shellfish from the Snake Bank area until further notice is given to lift this warning.

High levels of faecal bacteria may indicate that the shellfish have been contaminated by human sewage or high levels of run-off containing animal wastes, and may cause symptoms of food poisoning, such as abdominal pain, diahorrea and/or vomiting, if consumed.

Anyone who becomes ill after eating shellfish from any area should consult their doctor.

Members of the public with queries about shellfish safety should call Whangarei Hospital on 09-430 4100, and ask for the on-call Health Protection Officer. Alternatively they can contact Elizabeth Watts, Northland DHB Shellfish Programme Coordinator, on 021 617774.

-Ends-

For further information, please contact:

Clare Blackburn, Communications Manager

Northland District Health Board 

Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3315