Before digging for clams or harvesting mussels along province’s coast, the BC Centre for Disease Control is warning about a spike in illness associated with shellfish consumption in recent days.
Five people have been sick with V. parahaemolyticus (vibriosis) in the last two weeks, according to the BCCDC.
Symptoms of the foodborne illness associated with shellfish consumption include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
The vibrio bacteria is naturally occurring in the ocean, and grows in molluscan shellfish such as clams, oysters, and mussels. Small amounts are not uncommon, but with warmer water, the bacteria can multiply rapidly. Experts say the recent heatwave created a perfect storm for more infections related to those eating shellfish.
The largest outbreak of vibriosis in B.C. history occurred in 2015, when 62 persons became ill. There are concerns if people don’t follow the latest warnings, this year could also be record-breaking.
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