4 °C - the National Sea Grant Library

2. PREVENT ILLNESS RESULTING FROM EXPOSURE TO
MARINE BIOTOXINS IN COASTAL WATERS OF THE GULF
OF MEXICO.
3. REDUCE LONG-TERM HEALTH RISKS FROM EXPOSURE TO
TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN GULF OF MEXICO SEAFOOD WHILE
MAINTAINING THE BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF SEAFOOD
CONSUMPTION.
4. PREVENT EXPOSURE TO PATHOGENS IN COASTAL
WATERS OF THE GULF OF MEXICO.
The prioritized categories of concern are: (1) exposure to pathogens in Gulf waters
via consumption of raw molluscan shellfish; (2) marine biotoxins and their effect on
human health; (3) toxic substances in the food chain, the potential for
biomagnification and human health effects caused by consumption; and (4) exposure
to pathogens in Gulf waters from recreational or occupational contact.
Four strategies have been designed to meet the challenges of the program: (1)
research and demonstration; (2) monitoring/assessment; (3) standards/enforcement;
and (4) public outreach. Objectives are grouped according to these strategies and are
the specific short-term targets for attaining the goals. Each objective is followed by
action items that identify those actions to be taken to meet the goals and objectives
of public health,
1. RESEARCH AND DEMONSTRATION (R&D)
(action items l-6)
OBJECTIVES
a. Conduct scientific studies designed to contribute new empirical
information pertinent to the prevention of illness in those exposed to
Gulf waters or from consumption of products harvested from Gulf
waters.
b. Identify and characterize marine biotoxins and progenitors that have
not been investigated and continue to develop and improve methods
for the identification and management of marine biotoxins.
2. MONITORING/ASSESSMENT (M&A)
(action items 7-18)
OBJECTIVES
a Determine the extent of human fecal pollution of shellfish growing
areas in the Gulf of Mexico.