Many more cases go unreported as symptoms can be mild and often non-lethal. In 1997, victims of PSP who chose to ignore warnings and closures were air-evacuated from Pender Island. Some believe that bivalve consumption is safe during months with an R. Not true for the Pacific coast where conditions optimal for algal growth can occur throughout winter. Another misconception is that heat from cooking denatures the toxin. Anyone suspecting that they have consumed contaminated bivalves should seek medical attention immediately.
Information is readily available on the status of marine biotoxin closures.
Annually published saltwater sport fishing guides contain important information designating permanently closed areas. Current area and sub-area notices reporting warnings and closures are readily available over the telephone or Internet. Toxicity is established by injecting lab mice with an extract of mussel tissue. Not a procedure you'll find in your sea kayaking manual. The best avenue of prevention is to be an informed traveler and to obey all warnings and closures.