Toxin closes King County beaches to shellfish harvest

King County beaches are closed to recreational
shellfish harvesting because of potentially dangerous
levels of a toxin, known as P.S.P.

Sampling shows high levels of Paralytic Shellfish
Poison, a potent neurotoxin that is naturally occuring,
according to the state Health Department.

People who harvest shellfish are urged to check with the
state’s Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632 or
check the website.

The King County closure affects the harvest of
clams, oysters, mussels, scallops, other species of
mollusks and invertebrates.

Crab meat is typically not affected by P.S.P.

Cooking or freezing does not destroy the toxin.
The toxin cannot be detected by sight, only by a
laboratory test.

The closure does not affect the commercial harvest
of shellfish.