11 Nov 2023 - Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) - Cape Karikari north to Kokota
New Zealand Food Safety is advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish gathered from the Northland east coast because of paralytic shellfish toxins.
"Routine tests on mussels from Houhora have shown levels of paralytic shellfish toxins over the safe limit," says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.
The warning extends from Cape Karikari north to Kokota (the Sandspit), just south of Parengarenga Harbour.
Shellfish affected - Mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles, scallops, catseyes, kina (sea urchin) and all other bivalve shellfish.
Note, cooking shellfish does not remove the toxin.
Pāua, crab and crayfish may still be eaten if the gut has been completely removed prior to cooking, as toxins accumulate in the gut. If the gut is not removed its contents could contaminate the meat during the cooking process.
- numbness and a tingling (prickly feeling) around the mouth, face, and extremities (hands and feet)
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- paralysis and respiratory failure and in severe cases, death.
If you get sick after eating shellfish
If someone gets sick after eating shellfish, make sure you:
- phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or get medical help immediately
- advise your nearest public health unit
- keep any leftover shellfish in case it can be tested.
Public Health Contact:
https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/our-health-system/health-sector-organisations/public-health-contacts/
Map of affected area:
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/fishing-aquaculture/recreational-fishing/where-unsafe-to-collect-shellfish/shellfish-biotoxin-alerts/#map-northland
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