THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Bfar) on Thursday warned against collecting shellfish from the coastal waters of Gigantes Islands in Casares, Iloilo, which is now positive for red-tide toxin.
According to Shellfish Bulletin 32, the Bfar said shellfish from Balite Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental; coastal waters of Dauis in Bohol, Milagros in Masbate, Daram Island in Daram; and Irong-Irong Bay and Cambatutay Bay in Western Samar, are still positive for paralytic shellfish poison that is beyond regulatory limit.
Also positive for paralytic shellfish poison are the shellfish from Carigara Bay in Leyte; coastal waters of Pilar and Sapian Bay in Capiz; Altavas, Batan and New Washington in Batan Bay, Aklan; and coastal waters of Naval, Biliran Island Province. “All types of shellfish and Acetes species, or alamang, gathered from [these] areas are not safe for human consumption,” the bulletin read.
The attached agency of the Department of Agriculture said fish, squid, shrimps and crabs are safe for human consumption, provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and internal organs are removed before cooking.
Paralytic shellfish poisoning is a life-threatening illness caused by eating shellfish from waters positive with red tide. Symptoms include tingling of the lips and tongue, numbness and drowsiness.
Severe cases can cause muscles of the chest and abdomen to become paralyzed. Death can result in as little as two hours, as muscles used for breathing become paralyzed.