WA Health warning: Shellfish from lower Swan, Canning river estuaries could cause major illness

WA Health is warning local shellfish lovers not to eat their catch if they’ve come from the lower Swan or Canning river estuaries.

Recent water testing discovered elevated levels of toxic microscopic algae in the area, from Blackwall Reach to East Perth and Canning Bridge, through to Salter Point.

Shellfish that eat the dangerous algae can absorb the toxins, and once ingested by humans, it can cause diarrhetic shellfish poisoning — a serious illness resulting in nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Acting environmental health executive director Jane Cook said people should avoid eating any wild shellfish they have caught recreationally.

“These algae are not visible to the naked eye and normal cooking processes will not destroy the toxins in the shellfish,” Ms Cook said.

“Community members are advised to avoid eating wild shellfish including anything from rivers, estuaries or other waterways.”

This includes oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, cockles and razor clams.

It does not include crustaceans such as shrimp, prawns or crabs.

Ms Cook said shellfish from the supermarket or other commercial outlets were okay to consume as they would have quality-assurance programs to ensure safe consumption.

WA Health recommends anyone who has recently eaten freshly caught shellfish to monitor for possible symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, headaches and chills.