THE BUREAU of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) warned consumers from eating shellfish harvested from Bislig Bay, Surigao del Sur after the area tested positive for paralytic shellfish poison or red tide contamination.
BFAR said in its 13th bulletin that Bislig Bay joins other red tide positive zones across the country such as Puerto Princesa Bay, Palawan; Dauis and Tagbilaran City, Bohol; Tambobo Bay, Negros Oriental; Calubian, Leyte; Balite Bay, Davao Oriental; and Lianga Bay and Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.
All types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or alamang harvested in red tide areas are unsafe for human consumption. However, other marine species from the contaminated waters can still be eaten with proper handling.
Red tide occurs as a result of high concentrations of algae in the water. Human consumption of contaminated shellfish may result in paralytic shellfish poisoning, which affects the nervous system.
Typical symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning are headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Severe cases may include muscular paralysis and respiratory issues. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave