Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026

Design and Use of an Apparatus for Quantifying Bivalve Suspension Feeding at Sea
Published on: September 5, 2018
Outbreak of Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning associated with mussels, British Columbia, Canada
Marsha Taylor1, Lorraine McIntyre, Mark Ritson
1British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12 Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 4R4, Canada. marsha.taylor@bccdc.ca
Abstract:
In 2011, a Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) outbreak occurred in British Columbia (BC), Canada that was associated with cooked mussel consumption. This is the first reported DSP outbreak in BC. Investigation of ill individuals, traceback of product and laboratory testing for toxins were used in this investigation. Sixty-two illnesses were reported. Public health and food safety investigation identified a common food source and harvest area. Public health and regulatory agencies took actions to recall product and notify the public. Shellfish monitoring program changes were implemented after the outbreak. Improved response and understanding of toxin production will improve management of future DSP outbreaks.
Related Concept Videos
Investigation of Disease Outbreaks
Cholera
Bacterial Gastroenteritis
Reservoir of Infection
Marine Microbial Ecology
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance

