After dozens of reports of illnesses potentially linked to raw oysters, public health officials across Southern California are warning consumers to ask where their favorite restaurant's seafood comes from.
The Orange County Health Care Agency on Tuesday became the latest in the region to warn its residents about eating raw oysters after San Diego and Los Angeles counties reported norovirus illnesses that may be linked to Imported seafood harvested and packaged in Sonora, Mexico.
As of last month, San Diego County reported 41 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus illness, and Los Angeles County reported 27 cases of gastrointestinal illness potentially linked to raw oysters consumed at local restaurants. Those restaurants have not been identified by public health officials.
Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advised restaurants and retailers not to serve or sell oysters distributed by the GolPac Aquatic Society that were harvested on Dec. 18 or 27 due to possible norovirus contamination.
According to the FDA, oysters contaminated with norovirus can cause illness if eaten raw and potentially serious illness in people with compromised immune systems.
Food shows no outward signs when contaminated with norovirus, but once consumed, it can cause symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms usually develop between 12 and 48 hours after exposure to the virus. Most people with norovirus get better within one to three days.
Severe cases can cause dehydration and are more likely to occur in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses.
Workers clean oysters in the state of Nayarit, Mexico. Health officials believe the contaminated oysters are linked to a distributor in the state of Sonora.
(César Rodríguez/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health, is still investigating the origin of the recent cluster of gastrointestinal illnesses. The Times' request for more information about the establishments linked to the illness reports was not received by the time of publication.
“Until the source is confirmed, consumers should use caution before eating raw oysters due to the potential risk of foodborne illness,” Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a statement. press. “If you are sick, avoid spreading illness by washing your hands frequently and cleaning frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and kitchen counters.”
Anyone who becomes ill after consuming food or beverages should first seek medical attention and then report the incident to their county health department, public health officials said.
Los Angeles County residents who become ill after consuming food or beverages are asked to file a report online. Orange County residents should report such illness by emailing [email protected] or calling (714) 433-6418. San Diego County residents are asked to call (858) 505-6814 or email [email protected].
