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Christchurch and Lyttelton Shellfish warning due to diarrhetic Shellfish Biotoxin
1 year ago •source mpi.govt.nz
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
New Zealand Food Safety has issued a warning against the consumption of shellfish collected from Christchurch beaches and Lyttelton Harbour due to the presence of diarrhetic shellfish toxins. This warning comes after routine tests on greenshell mussels from Sumner revealed toxin levels exceeding safe limits. The warning covers the area from Waimairi Beach to the southern head of Lyttelton Harbour, including Lyttelton Harbour and the Avon and Heathcote River Estuary.The affected shellfish include mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles, scallops, pūpū (cat’s eyes), Cook’s turban, and kina (sea urchin). Cooking does not eliminate the toxin, hence the advice against consumption.
The issue came to light during routine testing of shellfish in the region. Symptoms of diarrhetic shellfish poisoning typically appear within 30 minutes of consumption and can last for about a day. These symptoms may include diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps. While pāua, crab, and crayfish may still be safe to eat if the gut is completely removed prior to cooking, finfish are not affected by this public health warning. However, gutting the fish and discarding the liver before cooking is advised.
If you or a loved one are harmed or experiencing any symptoms, it is important to report it. Reporting can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source: www.mpi.govt.nz/news/media-releases/shellfish-biotoxin-warning-for-christchurch-and-lyttelton
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