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Tuesday, March 19, 2024
March 19, 2024

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Shellfish harvests banned in Hood Canal due to toxin levels

The Columbian
Published:

BREMERTON, — Kitsap County health officials have closed shellfish harvesting in Hood Canal from the Bangor naval station south to the Mason County line due to high levels of marine toxins.

The Kitsap Sun reports that samples of mussels collected Tuesday contained harmful levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning.

As a result, all recreational shellfish harvesting for species of clams, oysters and mussels has been banned. Commercially harvested shellfish are tested for toxins before distribution.

Shrimp and crab are not included in the closure, but Kitsap Public Health District officials say crabs should be cleaned before cooking.

Symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning usually begin with tingling lips and tongue, moving to the hands and feet, followed by difficulty breathing and sometimes death. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact a health care provider. For extreme reactions, call 911.

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