Report by
Outbreak
Norovirus & Gastrointestinal Outbreak linked to Raw Oysters from British Columbia
3 years ago •source canada.ca
Canada
The Public Health Agency of Canada is investigatin an outbreak of norovirus and gastrointestinal illnesses linked to consumption of raw oysters from B.C. and involving four provinces: B.C. (262), Alberta (1), Saskatchewan (1), and Ontario (15).As of March 30, 2022, there have been 279 cases of norovirus and gastrointestinal illness linked to consumption of B.C. oysters reported. Individuals became sick between mid-January and late March 2022, and no deaths have been reported. Although not all cases of illness have been tested, testing of several cases has confirmed the presence of a norovirus infection.
Raw oysters contaminated with noroviruses may look, smell and taste normal. The following safe food-handling practices will reduce your risk of getting sick:
- Do not eat, use, sell, or serve any recalled oysters.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked oysters. Cook oysters to an internal temperature of 90° Celsius (194° Fahrenheit) for a minimum of 90 seconds before eating.
- Discard any oysters that did not open while cooking.
- Eat oysters right away after cooking and refrigerate leftovers.
- Always keep raw and cooked oysters separate to avoid cross-contamination.
- Do not use the same plate or utensils for raw and cooked shellfish, and wash counters and utensils with soap and warm water after preparation.
- Wash your hands well with soap before and after handling any food. Be sure to clean and sanitize cutting boards, counters, knives and other utensils after preparing raw foods.
Noroviruses can be transmitted by ill individuals and are able to survive relatively high levels of chlorine and varying temperatures. Cleaning and disinfecting practices are the key to preventing further illnesses in your home.
In case you are experiencing Norovirus symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and nausea, 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: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/public-health-notices/2022/outbreak-norovirus-gastrointestinal-illness-linked-raw-oysters-british-columbia.html
4
Comments
Comment