Bivalve Consumption Advisory Issued for Port Dickson Due to Biotoxin Contamination
The Star, 4 April 2024
The Fisheries Department of Malaysia has advised against the consumption of bivalves, including mussels, lokan, and lala, harvested in the waters off Port Dickson for a period of three weeks. This precautionary measure follows the detection of elevated levels of biotoxins produced by specific algal species in these shellfish.
Laboratory analysis conducted by the Fisheries Biosecurity Centre confirmed the presence of Prorocentrum, Alexandrium, and Pseudonitzschia algae in mussel samples collected from Port Dickson. These algae can produce potent biotoxins that can cause illness in humans if consumed.
“While other marine life such as fish, squid, and crabs remain safe for consumption,” said Fisheries Department Deputy Director-General (Management) Wan Aznan Abdullah, “we urge the public to refrain from consuming bivalves harvested in Port Dickson for the next 20 days.”
Mr. Abdullah attributed the algal bloom, believed to be responsible for the biotoxin contamination, to the recent unusually hot weather conditions. He emphasized that tests conducted on bivalves from other states, including Melaka and Johor, did not reveal any biotoxin concerns.
“There is no current evidence to suggest sea pollution as a contributing factor,” Mr. Abdullah added. “This is the first instance of biotoxin contamination reported in Port Dickson mussels. Previous cases involving mussels in Penang and Sabah stemmed from elevated lead levels.”
The advisory follows eight reported cases of food poisoning in Port Dickson on Tuesday, April 2nd, suspected to be linked to mussel consumption. Two individuals required intensive care after experiencing paralysis. Dr. Harlina Abdul Rashid, Negri Sembilan Health Director, confirmed that the affected individuals, from separate families, had purchased mussels from two local markets and subsequently presented with symptoms like headaches, numbness, and muscle weakness. Investigations traced the source of the mussels to Pasir Panjang, where most mussel farming operations in the district are located.
The Fisheries Department has issued a directive to fishermen and mussel farmers in Port Dickson to cease harvesting and selling bivalves until further notice. “We are actively monitoring the situation and will conduct regular testing,” said Mr. Abdullah. “Consumption advisories will be lifted once bivalve samples are confirmed safe for consumption through laboratory analysis. Visual inspection alone cannot determine the presence of biotoxins.”
Kasim Tawe, State Fisheries Director, provided an update on the hospitalized individuals. “As of today, only one patient in his seventies remains in intensive care. Four others are expected to be discharged soon.”
