Health & Fitness
11 Norovirus Cases Reported In San Diego County
The cases have been linked to frozen oysters imported from South Korea, public health officials announced.
SAN DIEGO, CA — Eleven confirmed and probable cases of norovirus illness in San Diego County have been linked to frozen oysters imported from South Korea, public health officials announced Tuesday.
Customers who ate the oysters between March 31 and April 1 at 100s Seafood Grill Buffet in Mission Valley became sick, with one person going to the emergency room, according to the county.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has linked the San Diego illnesses to quick-frozen oysters. The FDA has cautioned all restaurants and stores that sell frozen, raw half-shell oysters to check their freezers and verify the origin of their oysters.
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To identify their origin, look for shellfish tag or label information. Oysters processed by JBR (KR 15 SP) in Tongyeongsi, Republic of Korea on Nov. 27, 2023, Jan. 4, 2024 and Feb. 15, 2024 with lot numbers B231126, B240103 and B240214 should not be consumed. These items may be labeled "Amazing Sea Brand."
The county is working with the California Department of Public Health to identify other potential retailers in the region.
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"If you have consumed these oysters and feel ill, it is important to see your doctor for evaluation," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "If you or someone you live with is sick with norovirus, it is important to wash your hands often and clean common areas to prevent spreading the infection."
The new cases come four months after county health officials linked 41 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus to raw oysters imported from a specific harvest location in Northwest Mexico.
People infected with norovirus generally develop nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever and body aches about 12 to 48 hours after consuming contaminated foods. The illness typically lasts for one to three days. The vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration requiring medical attention, especially in young children, older adults and people with other illnesses.
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.
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