CIGUATERA CONCERNS

Ciguatera Confirmed in Grouper from Sanctuary

May 2007--The Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary has received an FDA confirmed report of ciguatera poisoning resulting from human consumption of a gag grouper caught in the sanctuary. Fish species most commonly associated with ciguatera toxin include large carnivorous reef fish such as: barracuda, hogfish, groupers, snappers, jacks and mackerel.

When consumed by humans, fish containing ciguatera toxin can cause a range of symptoms within 6-24 hours such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, headaches, profound fatigue, itching and tingling skin, and a reversal of hot and cold sensations.

Samples from the fish in this case were sent to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for analysis. NOAA is working with the FDA to conduct a sampling survey of the Flower Garden Banks and Stetson Bank and the immediate surroundings. This analysis will determine if the issuance of any seafood consumption advisory is needed.

For more information regarding the ciguatera toxin, visit the FDA's web site at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~mow/chap36.html