MSX Parasite Threatens P.E.I.'s Lucrative Oyster Industry

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirms the spread of the parasite, which reduces oyster lifespan but poses no risk to human health.

New detections of the MSX parasite have been reported in East River, Rustico, Malpeque Bay, and from Rice Point to Wood Islands.
MSX, short for multinucleate sphere X, can kill oysters that are at least two years old, with mortality rates up to 95% within two to three years.
The parasite does not affect human health, making the infected oysters safe for consumption.
Peter Warris of the P.E.I. Aquaculture Alliance reports that oysters are already dying in Bedeque Bay.
MSX can be present in an area for years without causing issues, but recent detections indicate an immediate threat to oyster populations.