Norovirus Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters from Korean Company: Health Officials Issue Warning to Distributors and Retailers
In late March and April, health officials in San Diego County reported at least 33 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus, which they believe to be linked to raw oysters from a Korean company. The California Department of Public Health has since issued a warning to distributors and retailers regarding these oysters, which were shipped under the unique identifier “KR 15 SP” on the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List and may also be labeled “Amazing Sea Brand.”
Two California distributors, S.J. Distributors LLC in San Jose and Great Wall Seafood LA LLC in Irwindale, have issued recalls of the oysters. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in the Republic of Korea has advised the company to voluntarily recall the distributed lots. Restaurants and retailers who have potentially contaminated raw oysters are being urged to discard any leftover product.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious gastrointestinal illness, spreading person-to-person through contaminated surfaces and contaminated food. Symptoms of norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps, which can last for one to three days.
For more information on shellfish advisories, individuals can visit the California Department of Public Health website.
