Poisonous Starfish Warning

The recent strong winds from Storm Darcy have seen a warning about poisonous starfish being swept onto our beaches here in Suffolk.

The warning from Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority, says the fish may may contain Paralytic toxins that could be harmful to humans and dogs if consumed.

They're urging you to keep dogs on leads for the time being - but if they become unwell to contact your local vet.

The symptoms below are those described for human intoxication, similar symptoms are expected to occur in mammals exposed to toxic levels of PSP.

Symptoms develop quickly, usually within 30 minutes, and include:
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• Tingling/burning sensation followed by numbness in the lips, tongue and face which progresses to extremities.
• Paralysis of limbs, loss of muscle co-ordination, constrictive sensation in the throat.
• In high doses, paralysis can extend to the respiratory system, affecting breathing.
• Other symptoms exhibited in canines exposed to PSP toxins have included vomiting, reduction in movement, difficulty walking and/or standing, loss of consciousness PSP toxins reversibly bind to the sodium channels in nerve cell membranes disrupting normal depolarisation. Treatment No antidote is available. When required, artificial respiration to support breathing.