Northern Health, the First Nations Health Authority, and the DFO are cautioning shellfish consumers after detecting probable cases of a dangerous illness.
Recently discovered cases of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning have been linked to butter clams harvested on Dundas Island in November.
PSP can lead to severe and life-threatening neurological effects.
DFO Shellfish Sanitation Program Coordinator Elysha Gordon is reminding harvesters to only gather bivalve shellfish from open, tested, areas.
Consumers are also being warned to only purchase shellfish from trusted providers who can varify their source.
Symptoms of PSP include: numbness in the face and extremities, dizziness, weakness, paralysis, and difficulty breathing.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms after consuming shellfish.
Cooking the clams does not remove the toxins.
You can find links to more information below:
DFO Harvesting and Contact Information.
First Nations Health Authority Release (in conjunction with Northern Health).
