Paralytic shellfish poisoning detected near Birch Bay

High levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) biotoxins have led to the closure of recreational shellfish harvesting in Whatcom County, spanning from Sandy Point to the Canadian border, including Point Roberts. Whatcom County Health and Community Services confirmed the detection of elevated PSP levels in the waters near Birch Bay. Symptoms of PSP can manifest rapidly, with effects such as mouth numbness, loss of muscle control, and difficulty breathing appearing within 30 minutes of consuming contaminated shellfish. Officials stress that neither cooking nor freezing can remove these harmful biotoxins from affected shellfish. To safeguard public health, recreational harvesters must check the state’s shellfish closure map before any harvesting activities.

This closure underscores the importance of monitoring water quality and ensuring safe consumption of shellfish. The potential for severe health risks from PSP necessitates immediate public compliance with the harvesting restrictions. Local residents and visitors are urged to stay informed as the situation develops.