Enteric Pathogens in Molluscan Shellfish in Puerto Rico:
An Integrated Approach.

College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Safety Department, North Carolina State University

Center For Environmental Education Conservation and Research,
Inter American University of Puerto Rico

Molluscan shellfish for human consumption are harvested from coastal estuaries and sounds, many of which routinely receive effluent containing fecal waste of residential, municipal, agricultural or wildlife origin. Each year shellfish continue to be identified as vehicles of enteric pathogens. However, Puerto Rico and many countries that harvest bivalves for human consumption do not actively monitor surface waters for evidence of fecal contamination. We hypothesize that moluscan shellfish pose a health risk for island residents and visitors. Accordingly, through this study we propose to:

       • Use the collected environmental and survey data to develop appropriate outreach activities and materials for public education;


       • Develop and conduct a workshop to train state, and federal workers in the design, and implementation of shellfish sanitation programs; and

       • Establish a continuing education program for sustaining molluscan shellfish food safety education and training efforts.