Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning warning removed from Waihi, not Tauranga

The Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin warning has now been removed from Waihi Beach northwards following ongoing shellfish toxin monitoring.

However, the current warning remains in place from Waihi Beach to the northern end of Pukehina.

The Medical Officer of Health, Richard Wall, said he advises against gathering or eating shellfish from Waihi Beach, along the Bay of Plenty coast to Rogers Road, Pukehina.

The warning includes Tauranga Harbour, Maketu and Waihi estuaries, Matakana and Motiti Islands, and all other islands along this coastline.

The health warning applies to all bi-valve shellfish including mussels, pipi, tuatua, cockles, oysters, scallops as well as catseyes and kina (sea urchin).

Shellfish in the affected area should not be taken or consumed. Paua, crayfish and crabs can still be taken but as always, the gut should be removed before cooking.

Consumption of shellfish affected by the paralytic shellfish toxin can cause numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision; and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure.

These symptoms usually occur within 12 hours of a person consuming affected shellfish. Anyone suffering illness after eating shellfish should seek medical attention.

Monitoring of toxin levels will continue along the coast and any changes will be communicated accordingly.

- Up-to-date information on the toxic shellfish health warning can be found through these channels:

•Phone: 0800 800 977 Waikato or 0800 221 555 Bay of Plenty
•Website: www.waikatodhbnewsroom.co.nz
•Signage at locations: (i.e. shellfish health warning signs at affected beaches)