Marine Drugs (May 2013)

Outbreak of Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning Associated with Mussels, British Columbia, Canada

  • Eleni Galanis,
  • Outbreak Investigation Team,
  • Marsha Taylor,
  • Lorraine McIntyre,
  • Wade Rourke,
  • Roni Bronson,
  • Olga Bitzikos,
  • Mark Ritson,
  • Jason Stone

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/md11051669
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 5
pp. 1669 – 1676

Abstract

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In 2011, a Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) outbreak occurred in British Columbia (BC), Canada that was associated with cooked mussel consumption. This is the first reported DSP outbreak in BC. Investigation of ill individuals, traceback of product and laboratory testing for toxins were used in this investigation. Sixty-two illnesses were reported. Public health and food safety investigation identified a common food source and harvest area. Public health and regulatory agencies took actions to recall product and notify the public. Shellfish monitoring program changes were implemented after the outbreak. Improved response and understanding of toxin production will improve management of future DSP outbreaks.

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