Update: Public Reminder - Marine Biotoxin in Shellfish

Northland District Health Board's Health Protection Unit reminds the Northland public and visitors to the region that shellfish in parts of the Bay of Islands have continued to show the presence of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) above the regulatory level.

Testing has shown that these harmful toxin levels have risen, and increased levels will result in much more serious results if affected shellfish are consumed.

The Health Protection Unit continues to advise the public NOT to collect or consume shellfish from within the area of the Bay of Islands enclosed by Cape Wiwiki to Cape Brett.

The symptoms of PSP include numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty in swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and, in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure. Symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of consuming shellfish.

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:

·         Elizabeth Watts, Northland DHB Shellfish Programme Coordinator, on 09-430 4100 or 021 617774

·         Or Whangarei Hospital, 09 430 4100, and request they page the on-call Health Protection Officer.
 

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For further information, please contact:

Clare Blackburn, Communications Manager

Northland District Health Board

Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3315