The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers in Florida and several other states to avoid eating oysters and Manila clams harvested from Pickering Passage, Washington, due to potential norovirus contamination. The affected shellfish were harvested between November 15 and December 11, 2024, by Rudy’s Shellfish (WA-1590-SS) and were shipped to distributors and retailers in Florida, California, Arizona, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Washington.
The FDA is advising restaurants and food retailers to refrain from selling or serving these oysters and clams, which could cause gastrointestinal illness in consumers. The affected shellfish, although they may appear normal, could carry norovirus, a highly contagious pathogen that causes stomach flu-like symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramps.
People infected with norovirus can experience symptoms 12 to 48 hours after consumption. In addition to common gastrointestinal distress, fever, headaches, and body aches can also occur. Though most people recover within 1 to 3 days, young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to complications, including dehydration. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness, and unusual sleepiness, particularly in young children.