KOTA KINABALU: Shellfish, including oysters and clams, from Kuala Penyu are not safe for consumption for the time being, Sabah Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Junz Wong said today.
He said this was because a toxic algae blooming incident or red tide has been detected in the area based on a recent analysis conducted by the Fisheries Department.
“Samples taken at Muara Sungai Periuk and Pancang Merah near Kuala Penyu also showed the presence of Pyrodinium bahamense that exceeded the dangerous level,” he said in a statement.
"Shellfish or other marine life will not be killed by it but will be exposed to paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP).
“PSP toxin is colourless, odourless and cannot be seen with the naked eyes," he said, adding that the toxins could not be destroyed by washing, freezing or cooking.
“All types of shellfish such as oysters, clams and others are not safe for now. But other seafood such as fish, prawns, crabs and squids are still safe but needed to be cleaned properly,” he said.
Wong said among the initial poisoning symptoms included pulsating in the lips and tongue in the first 30 minutes and the feeling of being poked by pins and needles on the skin.
In severe cases, he said victim could lose control of the limbs, and have difficulty breathing.
"Victim could also die within two to 24 hours of being poisoned," he said.
He urged victims to immediately seek medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital.