Toxic Algae Blooms Warnings Issued for Shellfish from Oregon and Washington

A recent outbreak of toxic algae blooms in the Pacific Northwest has raised concerns about the safety of shellfish from the region. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning urging consumers to avoid consuming shellfish from certain areas in Oregon and Washington due to potential contamination with paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins.

Contaminated Areas

Shellfish harvested from Netarts and Tillamook bays in northern Oregon since May 28, and from areas around Willapa Bay in southern Washington since May 26, are believed to be at risk of contamination. These products were distributed to several states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, and New York.

At least 31 people have been affected by PSP in Oregon, leading to serious illness and hospitalization. Symptoms of PSP poisoning include numbness of the mouth and lips, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat.

Algal Bloom Causes

The toxic algae blooms are believed to be caused by various factors including wind and water currents, high water temperatures, extreme weather events, and the influx of nutrients into bodies of water from sources such as agricultural fertilizers.

The closures of shellfish harvesting areas will have significant economic implications for the region, affecting the seafood industry which generates $270 million annually and employs approximately 3,200 people.