By Marisol Bo-oc | 12:39 PM July 12, 2023
Coastal areas in Bohol province remain positive for red tide toxin, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Bicol (BFAR) said Tuesday.
The presence of toxic red tide in shellfish meat is still beyond the regulatory limit in the coastal areas of Dauis and Tagbilaran City.
The Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) or toxic red tide is beyond the regulatory limit.
The other area affected by the red tide is
Dumanquillas Bay sa Zamboanga del Sur.
BFAR also warned the public to refrain from gathering, transporting, selling, buying, and eating all types of shellfish and alamang (small shrimp) from the affected coastal water to avoid PSP.
“Fish, squid, regular shrimps, and crabs are safe for human consumption, provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly. Internal organs such as gills and intestines must also be removed before cooking,” the advisory said.
Red tide is a phenomenon caused by algal blooms which occur along coastal regions.
According to experts, shellfish are prone to red tide because when they eat the poison-producing algae, the toxin can accumulate in their tissues. Biotoxins do not harm shellfish, so the level in their tissue will rise until the algae bloom subsides.
Studies showed that the shellfish would eventually flush the toxin out, but it can take several days to several months or longer.
The usual symptoms of PSP are tingling, numbness of the mouth and extremities, and gastrointestinal discomforts such as vomiting and diarrhea.
In severe cases, difficulty in swallowing and speech paralysis with respiratory arrest, and even death, can occur.
