Identifying South-east Asian immigrant populations in Massachusetts at risk from eating contaminated shellfish

Abstract

A number of shellfish beds are closed in Massachusetts as a result of microbial contamination. Despite these closures, harvesting of shellfish by members of recent South-east Asian settlement communities occurs and has raised concerns regarding health risks. This activity is highest for communities in Boston, Lynn, Revere and Quincy. Shellfishing is viewed by many in the community as a normal recreational and food-gathering activity which is consistent with their cultural experience. In areas of greatest activity, hundreds of people including many families are observed shellfishing on a weekly basis. This study identified and ranked communities at risk. A community-based pilot project was initiated to reduce exposure and risk in one of these communities. The project relied upon a broad range of communication tools and involved leaders within the community. The project appears to have reduced the number of community members engaged in the activity. The community-based approach offers some advantages over traditional enforcement methods. In particular, the knowledge gained by the community can be passed on by community leaders to new immigrants through the existing community support service channels.1998 Academic Press Limited