Shellfish-related illnesses hit a record high this summer.
35 cases of Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections were reported to the BC Centre of Disease Control during the past two months.
Most of these have been linked to the consumption of raw oysters from BC and served in restaurants.
This bacterium occurs naturally in shellfish and is found with higher concentrations during the summer months when water temperatures rise.
The most common symptoms of the infection are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and bloody bowel movements.
To reduce the risks, it’s advised to eat cooked shellfish to destroy the bacteria.
If you become ill after eating shellfish, contact HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.
