The Town of Oyster Bay's namesake shellfish are again permitted to be harvested, effectively ending the Department of Environmental Conservation's July 12 closure of the shoreline to shellfishing, according to a Town press release.
"The DEC collected hard clam and oyster samples from Oyster Bay Harbor on six occasions in July, August and September for testing by a U.S. Food and Drug Administration laboratory," said Councilman Chris Coschignano in a statement. "The results of the last three sets of shellfish samples showed that Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a bacteria that had previously been detected, was no longer present in oysters at levels that are hazardous to human health."
The ban was lifted for the harvesting of all shellfish other than oysters on August 4.
When ingested, the bacteria in question may cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, fever and chills, according to the DEC.
Symptoms can occur within 24 hours of ingestion and linger for up to a week, the release stated. People with compromised immune systems or underlying chronic diseases are at risk for more serious illness.
All shellfish should be thoroughly cooked to reduce the risk of illness.
More information about temporary shellfish closures can be heard on a recorded message at 631-444-0480. Information and maps of temporary closures are available on the DEC's website.
Reminders for this week:
- Yom Kippur begins Tuesday at sundown.
- The Town Clerk's office is open at Town Hall South until 7:30 p.m.
Mark your calendars:
Autism Awareness Walk
Where: John J. Burns Town Park, Massapequa
When: Sunday, Sept. 23 - all day
