SEAFOOD harvested off Cumbria's West Coast could contain harmful toxins and should not be eaten until further notice, according to Environmental health bosses.
A naturally occurring toxin has been discovered in cockles and mussels harvested between Allonby and Grune Point, near Silloth, sparking warnings from health chiefs.
When ingested the toxin can produce Diarrheic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) - an illness which may last up to three days. Symptoms include cramps, nausea, vomiting and chills.
Allerdale's Environmental Health Services manager John Cain said: "For the immediate future members of the public should avoid consumption of mussels and cockles harvested between Allonby and Grune Point.
"Temporary prohibition orders have been put on the beaches affected to suspend commercial harvesting and harvesting for personal consumption by members of the public."
The order will be lifted when the toxins are no longer present.
Dr Nigel Calvert, a consultant with the Health Protection Agency, said: "This toxin does not cause severe illness although we would certainly go along with the advice from colleagues in Environmental health and consumption should be avoided."
June 5, 2003 15:00
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