An annual quarantine of all sport-harvested mussel species along the California coast is now in effect, according to the California Department of Public Health.

The quarantine is in place to protect the public against poisoning as the toxins found in mussels can lead to severe illness and death.

This warning does not apply to commercially sold clams, mussels, scallops or oysters. State-certified commercial shellfish harvesters or dealers are permitted to sell these products, which are subject to frequent mandatory testing to ensure they are safe for consumers.

Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) and domoic acid poisoning (DAP) are both linked to microscopic plankton that are concentrated in filter-feeding animals. PSP affects the human central nervous system, producing a tingling around the mouth and fingertips within a few minutes to a few hours after eating toxic shellfish. DAP can occur within 30 minutes to 24 hours after eating toxic seafood.

Click here for more information about the quarantine, PSP and DAP on the Mussel Quarantine Frequently Asked Questions web page at the California Department of Public Health.

The quarantine usually lasts from May 1 through Oct. 31. The quarantine began earlier this year because testing has detected elevated levels of domoic acid and high numbers of algae that produce this toxin.

To receive updated information about shellfish poisoning and quarantines, call CDPH toll-free Shellfish Information Line at 800.553.4133. You may also receive additional information from the California Department of Public Health by clicking here.

— Michele Mickiewicz is a public information officer for the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department.