Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is a severe and potentially fatal form of seafood poisoning caused by consuming shellfish contaminated with neurotoxins. These toxins are produced by microscopic marine algae (dinoflagellates) during harmful algal blooms, often called \"red tides.\" It primarily affects people who eat contaminated bivalve shellfish like clams, mussels, oysters, or scallops.
No active Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning reports in New Mexico right now.
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Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning has been documented for centuries, with early indigenous coastal communities recognizing its dangers. The scientific link between shellfish consumption and neurological symptoms was established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Further research in the mid-20th century identified the causative neurotoxins, such as saxitoxin, and their origin in certain marine dinoflagellates.
Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is not transmitted directly from person to person. It is acquired solely through the consumption of shellfish (bivalve mollusks like mussels, clams, oysters, and scallops) that have fed on and accumulated toxins from specific species of microscopic marine algae. These algae produce potent neurotoxins that become concentrated in the shellfish's tissues without harming the shellfish themselves.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance
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Seek care if you experience severe dehydration, bloody stools, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 3 days. Children under 5, adults over 65, and immunocompromised individuals should seek care earlier.
Emergency symptoms: Severe dehydration, inability to keep fluids down for 12 or more hours, or neurological symptoms require emergency care.
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Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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View WHO Resources →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: 2026-07-18
No confirmed cases reported in New Mexico yet. Here are the latest Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning reports from our global surveillance network.
Thirty-three cases of paralytic shellfish poisoning occurred in coastal Guangdong Province following consumption of okadaic acid-contaminated conchs, with all patients experiencing mild to moderate symptoms and no fatalities. This pre-Spring Festival outbreak highlights ongoing r…
Affected shellfish include bivalve shellfish such as mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles and scallops, as well as pūpū (cat's eyes) and Cook's turban. "Cooking the shellfish does not remove the toxin, so shellfish from this area should not be eaten," Arbuckle said. …
Public health authorities on the West Coast have issued a warning against consuming shellfish after a harmful algal bloom was detected. These blooms can produce toxins that cause severe illness, including potentially fatal paralytic shellfish poisoning. Residents are advised to i…
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