Oregon Expands Shellfish Harvesting Ban Due to Record Toxin Levels

State officials report unprecedented closures affecting the entire coastline as paralytic shellfish poisoning cases rise.

Closures now include razor clams, bay clams, and mussels along the entire Oregon coast.
The toxin responsible, saxitoxin, is produced by algae and can cause severe health issues.
At least 31 people have fallen ill from shellfish poisoning since mid-May.
Neighboring Washington has also closed its coastline to shellfish harvesting.
Authorities are conducting bi-monthly tests to monitor toxin levels before lifting bans.