Increase of Norovirus cases in King County, WA linked to raw oysters
2 years ago •source publichealthinsider.com
Outbreak
Washington, United States
Seattle & King County Public Health announced that they have received multiple reports of people getting sick with norovirus-like illness (nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea) after eating raw oysters in restaurants. In just March alone, they have received reports of 13 people whose illnesses they believe are linked to eating raw oysters. An additional 14 people became sick after being in close contact with the ill people who ate oysters. Most of the additional illnesses are among family members.Eating raw oysters can make you sick because they can be contaminated with norovirus and other germs. While norovirus is not typically a serious illness for healthy people, it can be very unpleasant. In addition, it’s highly contagious, meaning someone who has been infected with norovirus after eating raw oysters can easily pass the virus to their family and friends.
Some oysters linked to the illnesses reported in King County now appear to have come from a batch of oysters harvested in British Columbia, which have since been recalled due to norovirus contamination. The origin of other oysters linked to recent norovirus cases in King County is unknown at this time. Regardless of where an oyster was harvested it poses a high risk of carrying norovirus.
Public Health advises the following to reduce the risk of norovirus:
- Wash hands, cutting boards, and counters used for shellfish preparation immediately after use to avoid cross contaminating other foods. And, as general advice to prevent the spread of norovirus, wash hands thoroughly with soap after using the bathroom or changing diapers, and before preparing any food or eating.
- If you’ve been sick with norovirus, wait at least 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting and/or diarrhea before preparing any food for others.
- Oysters have long been recognized as a source of norovirus. Raw or undercooked oysters are a particular problem. Protect yourself and reduce your risk by choosing fully cooked oysters that have been thoroughly fried, baked, or made into a stew that has reached 145°F. Use a thermometer to check.
- Avoid eating raw oysters like oyster shooters and oysters on the half shell. Adding hot sauce or lemon to oysters does not kill the virus.
Norovirus is very contagious and is easily transmitted from person to person most through the oral/fecal route. Considering that hand sanitizer does NOT work against this virus, it is important to wash your hands with soap frequently. Use bleach to clean and disinfect surfaces.
In case you are experiencing Norovirus symptoms, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance.
Source: publichealthinsider.com/2022/03/25/like-eating-oysters-pay-attention-to-this-warning/