November 16, 2023
Biotoxin warning for shellfish
Food Safety New Zealand is warning people of a biotoxin affecting kaimoana in eastern parts of the Far North, Gisborne’s East Cape south to Hastings’ Cape Kidnappers, and Queen Charlotte Sound in Marlborough.
Deputy director-general, Vincent Arbuckle, says kina and bivalve shellfish including mussels, oysters, tuatua, cockles, and scallops pose the most risk – especially for those with existing health issues.
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It can be a numbness or tingling in the mouth, or face, hands or feet. It can be dizziness or nausea, headaches – and in a serious exposure it can include paralysis, respiratory failure and death.
Vincent Arbuckle says the biotoxin may take weeks to clear up, but the MPI website is the best place to get current and future information.