The Massachusetts Department of Health has ordered a precautionary closure of oyster beds in Edgartown in Katama Bay effective August 26, 2015. There are three confirmed cases of Vibrio food poisoning linked to consumption of raw oysters harvested in that area. Environmental conditions are conducive to the growth of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria there. Harvesting and processing of shellfish from these areas for commercial use is prohibited for the next seven days. If more cases are confirmed, an extended FDA-enforced closure could be issued. This is the first time a harvest area in Massachusetts has been closed because of Vibrio contamination this year. Vibrio bacteria grow in warmer waters, multiply as the temperature increases. The current water temperatures in Katama Bay … [Read more...]