Chonchi authorities ban shellfish extraction due to red tide

Health authorities in Chonchi, Chile, have prohibited the extraction of shellfish in Bahía Terao after tests detected Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). The Los Lagos Health Seremi implemented the restriction following results from the Bivalve Mollusk Sanity Program.

Regional and provincial authorities, including the Chiloé Provincial Presidential Delegate and the Mayor of Chonchi, are coordinating efforts to protect residents. The Chilean Navy is also participating in monitoring and enforcing restrictions in coastal zones to prevent the consumption of contaminated products.

Health officials have warned the public to purchase seafood only from authorized establishments and to demand safety certificates. They emphasized that the toxin responsible for the red tide is not eliminated through cooking.