All shellfish commonly collected and eaten in Washington can accumulate PSP.  Different shellfish take in and expel the toxin at different rates.  For example, mussels tend to take up and lose the toxin rapidly, while butter clams and scallops tend to take in and retain toxin for extended periods of time.  This is why some beaches may be closed to butter clam and scallop harvesting wile other species are still considered safe to eat.

PSP causes muscles to stop working.  The first symptom is a tingling sensation, usually on the lips and tongue progressing to fingers and toes, loss of arm and leg control and difficulty in breathing.  If enough toxin is consumed, death can result from lung failure.  Symptoms may occur minutes to hours after consumption.

The toxin acts rapidly and there is no antidote.  Immediate treatment is essential; induce vomiting and seek medical attention.  The best way to prevent PSP is to call the Marine Biotoxin Hotline BEFORE you harvest EVERY TIME.  Also look for signs posted at recreational shellfish sites!  The Washington State Department of Health and Clallam County, with the help of volunteers, test shellfish for PSP on a regular basis.  Advisory signs are posted when toxin levels are too high.  Note: Cooking will not destroy PSP toxin. 

Domoic Acid Poisoning (DAP)
Domoic Acid is a toxin produced by some algae.  When shellfish consume the algae, they can concentrate the domoic acid in their tissues.  This makes them poisonous for humans to eat.  Although this has not been a problem along the Strait of Juan de Fuca or in the bays, it has caused problems in Razor clams harvested along ocean beaches.  The best way to prevent DAP is to call the Hotline BEFORE you harvest. 

To reduce the risk associated with bacterial and viral contamination, do not eat raw shellfish.  Cook shellfish thoroughly to reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees F.  Note: Heat will not destroy PSP toxin.

Illnesses associated with pollution sources are:

• Bacterial: Gastroenteritis: diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting within 14-28 hours.
• Viral: Hepatitis: fever, nausea, abdominal cramps and jaundice within 10-30 days.

Chemical Pollution
Chemical pollution is also a concern.  Chemicals dumped in the water can accumulate in fish and shellfish making them unsafe for human consumption.

Symptoms from chemical ingestion vary with the different chemicals (oil, Mercury, etc.).  Consult your physician and/or Clallam County Environmental Health for more information.