Toss oysters imported from Mexico, county says amid norovirus outbreak
SAN DIEGO — San Diego County health officials on Thursday expanded its investigation of oyster-linked illness, advising consumers and restaurants to throw away any oysters imported from Mexico.
The announcement comes after 41 confirmed or probable cases of norovirus illness were reported locally last week — that number is now up to 69 confirmed and probable cases, the County of San Diego said.
Thus far, there have been no hospitalizations as infections have remained mild at this time, per local health officials. Those that fell ill reported consuming the seafood raw a day or two prior to the onset of symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
On Jan. 10, a popular fish restaurant chain called The Fish Shop, which has locations in Pacific Beach, Point Loma and Encinitas, were investigated by Public Health Services after complaints of foodborne illness.
Then the following day, the County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) confirmed at least 41 confirmed or probable cases of norovirus illness in San Diego County were linked to contaminated oysters imported from Sonora, Mexico. Health officials also reported oyster illness from sickened patrons at Carlsbad Aquafarm, an aquaculture farm.
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The FDA initially issued an advisory for Sonora oysters on Jan. 11, followed by a second advisory on Wednesday for Laguna De Guerrero Negro and Laguna Manuela in Baja California, Mexico. On Thursday, a second harvest location, Estero Morua, has been added to the advisory.
“All of the implicated oysters were harvested in December 2023 and no oysters since then have been distributed to food venues in San Diego from those locations,” the county said.
Other areas reporting norovirus cases include Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
“The County recommends that people ask where oysters were harvested when eating out or getting food from wholesale locations to avoid consuming oysters imported from Mexico,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, Deputy County Public Health Officer. “Norovirus is typically a mild illness but can cause dehydration especially for the very young and very old. Given the increasing number of cases, the chance for others at greater risk for more severe illness in the same home is also increased. I want to remind people who become ill, and those that live with them, to wash their hands frequently to avoid contaminating surfaces and foods that could further spread the infection.”
Those who experience symptoms from oyster-related illnesses should reach out to their healthcare provider. To report illness to the County after dining out or purchasing from wholesale food locations, call 858-505-6814, or email fhdepi@sdcounty.ca.gov.
Health officials warn that eating raw or undercooked oysters that may contain germs like Vibrio, Shigella, E. coli and norovirus can make you sick.
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