BC Drug and Poison Information Centre - Poison Control Service 1.800.567.8911           

Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning

Diarrhetic (or diarrheal) shellfish poisoning occurs from ingesting shellfish (such as mussels, cockles, scallops, oysters and whelks) that contain toxins.  These toxins cause gastroenteritis symptoms, such as watery diarrhea. 

  Steamed mussels have been associated with diarrhetic shellfish illnesses
        
Can the colour of the tide tell you when shellfish are safe to eat?  NO!  If you self-harvest shellfish, always check first to see if the area is open.
Check first to see if the beach is open for harvesting.

Facts and Figures

Get an overview about DSP.  Learn about the causes, treatments and prevention. More on shellfish harvesting.

Information for Health Professionals

Last Updated: August 5, 2011