Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning

Paralytic shellfish poisoning is caused by ingesting a toxin found in mussels, oysters or clams harvested from water where the toxin is present. Onset typically begins between 30 minutes and three hours after ingesting the contaminated food. Symptoms of poisoning include tingling, numbness, paralysis, nausea and vomiting. People can reduce their risk of poisoning by only buying shellfish from reputable sources.