The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has issued a red tide warning to the public following positive laboratory results of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) in shellfish collected from Bais Bay in Bais City, Negros Oriental.

In its warning dated September 6 and posted on its Facebook page on Saturday, September 7, the BFAR-Negros Oriental said shellfish samples collected and analyzed by the regional fisheries laboratory last August 12 tested positive for PSP using the lateral flow immunochromatographic and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

PSP can cause serious illnesses in humans who consume shellfish contaminated with toxins due to harmful algal blooms.

The public is advised to refrain from gathering, selling, and eating all types of shellfish and “alamang” (small shrimp) scientifically known as Acetes sp. from the waters of Bais Bay pending the results of confirmatory analysis.

The BFAR in Dumaguete City also said it is “safe” to eat fish, squid, crab, and shrimp, provided these are thoroughly washed, and the entrails are removed before consumption.

BFAR-7 officer-in-charge Regional Director Marion Ruinata signed the red tide warning. (PNA)