GLAMORGAN Spring Bay Mayor Michael Kent is confident that tourists will not be deterred by an algal bloom that is affecting shellfish on the state's East Coast.
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Several commercial shellfish harvesting sites in the state will remain closed until further notice as scientists keep a close eye on the state of the environment.
The algal bloom left three people with paralytic shellfish poisoning this week after they ate wild mussels in the area.
Cr Kent said that he hoped to see the shellfish industry able to return to normal procedures in the very near future.
"The algal bloom usually lasts about a month, maximum, and I think we've gone over that but I understand that it's not far away from being okay," he said.
"But there is no guarantee when it will be back open.
"We're hoping to get back to normality as quick as possible for everyone's sake."
Cr Kent said that he did not believe the event would cause a decrease in tourists visiting the region.
"Obviously some people want to try the local dishes and if they're not available, they will have to have something else to eat," he said.
"I would encourage everyone to listen to the scientific experts and do as they say otherwise you may get yourself sick."
A public health warning was issued this week advising against collecting or eating wild oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, scallops, abalone, rock lobster or crab from anywhere along the East Coast.
Shellfish from shops remains safe to consume as the state's commercial shellfish industry is closely monitored to ensure products are safe.