For immediate release: October 24, 2006 (06-167)

Contacts:
Richard Lillie, Shellfish and Water Protection 360-236-3313
Kim Zabel, Shellfish and Water Protection 360-236-3310
Jeff Smith, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA ¾  After a summer of oyster growing area closures in the Puget Sound and Hood Canal due to bacterial contamination, the Department of Health has re-opened the last remaining areas for both commercial and recreational harvesters. 

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a naturally occurring bacteria that grows more easily during the warm summer months.  "The cooler fall temperatures have done a great job of curbing the bacteria growth; all areas are now safe with no restrictions for Vibrio," said Kim Zabel, Office of Shellfish and Water Protection. 

Marine biotoxin closures are still in affect for many areas in the central and northern Puget Sound. "It is crucial to understand the difference between Vibrio and the marine biotoxin that causes Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP)," said Maryanne Guichard, director of the department’s Office of Shellfish and Water Protection.  "PSP cannot be destroyed by cooking. Residents who eat shellfish contaminated with PSP can become very ill or even die."

To be safe, recreational harvesters should check the agency’s Website (www. doh.wa.gov) for health closures. For biotoxin closures call the hotline at 1-800-562-5632.

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