Thurston County has enforced an immediate closure on recreational shellfish harvesting in Eld Inlet after detecting high levels of a marine biotoxin linked to Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP).
The ban, covering all shellfish species, aims to safeguard public health as Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) stress the risks associated with consuming contaminated shellfish.
The PHSS confirmed in a press release on Monday, Jan. 6, of measures taken to advise the public.
"Warning signs will be posted at public beaches at Frye Cove Park," the PHSS said.
The biotoxin can be absorbed by shellfish, such as clams, mussels, oysters, geoducks and scallops.
While harmless to the shellfish, the toxin poses serious health risks to humans.
According to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), DSP can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea within hours of ingestion.
"Cooking does not destroy the toxin and does not make the shellfish safe to eat," the county emphasized.
The DOH explained that DSP is caused by the toxin-producing dinoflagellate Dinophysis, a microscopic algae that shellfish feed on.
The toxin cannot be seen, tasted or smelled, making laboratory testing essential to detect its presence.
Shrimp and crab are typically not affected by biotoxin closures, but the DOH advised cleaning crabs thoroughly and discarding the “crab butter,” which may contain toxins.
Health officials urge harvesters to stay informed and check for biotoxin updates before collecting shellfish.
“We regularly test shellfish for biotoxins and close areas when unsafe levels are detected,” the DOH noted.
Thurston County’s Shellfish Protection District advised beachgoers to remain cautious.
The DOH recommends contacting a health care provider or local public health agency for people who experience mild symptoms after consuming shellfish.
In severe cases, immediate medical attention is advised, and residents should call 911 or visit an emergency facility.
The biotoxin risk is present year-round, and officials emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring.
To verify beach safety, residents can access the Shellfish Safety Map or call the biotoxin hotline at 1-800-562-5632.
More information can be found through the county’s Shellfish Protection District website.
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JnNwmn
Vegetation on shell fish beds helps keep the South Sound waters clean. Strip mining vegetation off shell fish beds prevents this cleaning action. Shell fish operators should not be allowed to strip vegetation
from tidal areas.
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