Cockle and mussel beds in the Whitford Sands have been closed after samples proved positive for diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP).
The beaches remain open to the public and there is no health risk to beach users, however, Swansea Council has issued a Notice of Temporary Closure of Production Areas which will close the Whitford Sands for shellfish gathering.
Re-sampling is due to take place next week.
The Notices were issued following advice from the Food Standards Agency Wales and the Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aqua Science.
It came after samples of shellfish taken earlier this week by Swansea Council from the Whitford Sands have tested positive for DSP.
Lynda Anthony, Swansea Council’s Divisional Officer for Food and Safety, said, “Following the positive tests for DSP we have taken the appropriate action to close the beds until we are assured that shellfish in the area is safe for public consumption.
“Officers are putting notices along the entry points to the beds and are informing shellfish gatherers and producers that these activities must cease until further notice.
“We understand the concerns of gatherers and producers in the area and we would all like to see the beds re-open as soon as possible. In the meantime, our priority must be to protect public health.
“The closure of the shellfish beds does not in any way affect recreational use of the beaches. There is no health risk to beach users, but they must not collect or eat cockles or mussels.”
Notes:
The most recent advice from the Food Standards Agency Wales is that two consecutive negative samples, not less than seven days apart will be required from Whitford Sands before the production area can be re-opened.
Filter feeding bivalve shellfish, such as mussels and oysters, tend to accumulate toxins that may be present in the marine environment. This poses a food safety hazard and requires monitoring and control by the relevant authorities.
Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning is caused by okadaic acid and other toxins in algae. It causes diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, with onset 30 minutes to 12 hours after consumption. The illness lasts 3 to 4 days.
