The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has warned the public not to eat any shellfish or lobster liver found on the West Coast, following reports of three people becoming ill after eating shellfish collected in Lamberts Bay.
The problem may be a result of a toxic red tide, said the department in a statement on Friday. It is investigating and samples are being tested, it said.
“Animals, such as lobsters, that feed on toxic shellfish can accumulate the toxins in their digestive gland with no apparent effect, but will accumulate toxins in their liver. Members of the public are therefore advised not to eat lobster liver too.”
The reported incidents appeared to display symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning. Typical symptoms include tingling and numbness of the mouth, lips and fingers, which usually occur within the first 30 minutes after the ingestion of toxic shellfish.
Advanced symptoms include dizziness, incoherent speech, uncoordinated limbs with slight difficulty in breathing, and a rapid pulse. In severe cases it may cause paralysis.
Meanwhile, a non-toxic red tide persisted along False Bay, the department said. — Sapa
Members of the public can call the department’s red-tide information number — Tel: 021 434 4457 — for updates on the red tide