Overview

• At least 64 cases of gastrointestinal illness linked to raw oysters have been reported in British Columbia between November 1 and December 18, prompting warnings from health authorities.
• A separate outbreak in Los Angeles sickened over 80 attendees at a restaurant event on December 3, with some requiring hospitalization, though no deaths have been reported.
• The outbreaks have been traced to oysters potentially contaminated with norovirus, a highly contagious virus often linked to untreated sewage in shellfish-growing waters.
• Recalls have been issued for specific oyster products from British Columbia and Washington state, with health officials advising against consuming raw or undercooked shellfish from these regions.
• Experts recommend cooking oysters thoroughly to eliminate the risk of illness and caution consumers, especially vulnerable groups, to verify the source and handling of shellfish before consumption.