Environmental Health
Director: Jennifer Johnson
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What
is Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning? |
When
specific conditions align, including sunlight, water temperature,
and particular nutrients, a microscopic, poison-producing plankton
can reproduce very rapidly in seawater. The over-growth of this
plankton is also known as Red Tide. When shellfish feed on this
plankton, they accumulate a toxin that can cause serious illness
and even death to those who consume the shellfish. It is very important
not to consume shellfish that have been contaminated by this toxin.
Cooking shellfish does not prevent Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning.
For
more information view PSP (Paralytic Shellfish Poison) FAQS |
Infectious
Shellfish Hazards |
Water
contaminated with fecal matter reaching our bays and shellfish beds
can cause shellfish to harbor disease causing viruses and bacteria
such as Hepatitis A, Noro Virus, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Cooking
shellfish properly will inactivate and kill these disease causing
agents. The Health Department recommends always cooking shellfish
to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. |
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