CONTACT:  Renae Miller, Public Information Specialist, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, (360) 463-0362 or renae.miller@co.thurston.wa.us 
Dr. Jen Freiheit, Director, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services

Marine biotoxin that causes Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) detected at unsafe levels in shellfish in Budd Inlet.                                                                                                             

OLYMPIA – High levels of the biotoxin which produces diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) were detected in shellfish at unsafe levels, prompting closure of recreational shellfish harvesting for all species in Budd Inlet. The closure area includes Burfoot Park, the Boston Harbor area, and Squaxin Park. Warning signs will be posted at public beaches.

Biotoxins are produced by naturally occuring plankton which can become concentrated in shellfish. Biotoxins do not harm shellfish but can cause illness or death in humans and other mammals that eat them. Cooking does not destroy the toxin and does not make the shellfish safe to eat. Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Learn more about shellfish safety at: Shellfish Protection District | Thurston County

Harvesters should always check the shellfish safety map found online at www.doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/shellfish/recreational-shellfish  or by calling 1-800-562-5632 for a recorded hotline of biotoxin closures. More information is available on the website. 

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