Domoic Acid Poisoning

Domoic Acid Poisoning, also known as Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP), is a severe form of food poisoning caused by consuming seafood contaminated with domoic acid. This potent neurotoxin is produced by certain marine algae, primarily affecting humans and marine wildlife in coastal regions globally during harmful algal blooms.

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What is Domoic Acid Poisoning?

Domoic Acid Poisoning was first identified in 1987 during a major outbreak in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Contaminated mussels caused over 100 illnesses and several deaths, notably characterized by severe short-term memory loss. This event led to the recognition of domoic acid as a significant marine biotoxin and the implementation of widespread monitoring programs.

Symptoms

  • Gastrointestinal (mild): Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea.
  • Neurological (severe): Headache, dizziness, disorientation, short-term memory loss (amnesia), confusion, seizures, and in rare cases, coma or death.

Transmission

Domoic Acid Poisoning is transmitted through the consumption of seafood (primarily shellfish like mussels, clams, oysters, and scallops, but also certain finfish and crab viscera) that have accumulated domoic acid. These marine organisms filter-feed on or consume toxic algae during harmful algal blooms. The toxin is not spread directly from person to person.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Heed public health warnings and closures of shellfish harvesting areas.
  • Only consume shellfish from reputable, regulated sources.
  • Avoid harvesting your own shellfish unless certain of water quality and safety.
  • Be aware that cooking does not destroy domoic acid.

Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases

Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance

Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies

No Active Outbreaks Detected

Our AI-powered surveillance hasn't detected significant Domoic Acid Poisoning activity in the past 30 days.

Real-time monitoring continues 24/7 across BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ global health agencies

What This Means

Currently, Domoic Acid Poisoning case counts are within baseline expectations globally. However, diseases can emerge rapidly, which is why continuous monitoring is critical.

Stay Prepared

Download the Virus Watcher app to get instant alerts if Domoic Acid Poisoning activity increases in your region or travel destinations.

Prevention Remains Important

Even without active outbreaks, understanding Domoic Acid Poisoning prevention helps protect you and your community:

  • Heed public health warnings and closures of shellfish harvesting areas.
  • Only consume shellfish from reputable, regulated sources.
  • Avoid harvesting your own shellfish unless certain of water quality and safety.
  • Be aware that cooking does not destroy domoic acid.
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Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources โ†’

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

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Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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