Shellfish are off the menu along a large swathe of Northland's west coast after a toxin that can cause respiratory failure was found in shellfish from the area.
Northland District Health Board, Public Health Unit said the public should not collect or eat shellfish from the Northland west coast areabetween Omapere on the Hokianga harbour to Pouto at the entrance to Kaipara Harbour.
Shellfish collected within the area have shown the presence of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins, above the regulatory level.
The symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) include numbness and tingling around the mouth, face or extremities; difficulty in swallowing or breathing; dizziness; double vision and in severe cases, paralysis and respiratory failure can occur within 12 hours of consuming shellfish.
"Cooking the shellfish does not remove the toxin" Clair Mills, Medical Officer of Health for Northland DHB said.
"Anyone who becomes ill after eating shellfish should see a doctor or phone Healthline for advice on 0800 611116. For emergencies, phone 111 for immediate medical help."
Northland District Health Board will monitor the situation and advise of any changes. People with queries about shellfish safety can call Whangarei Hospital on 09 4304100 and request the on-call Health Protection Officer.
