BRITISH COLUMBIA, Canada — There have been 26 Washingtonians who developed norovirus-like illnesses over the last month after eating raw oysters from waters in western Canada, according to the state Department of Health (DOH)
Health officials warned residents in an updated release Tuesday about a recent string of norovirus-like illnesses linked to raw oysters harvested in the British Columbia, Canada region.
In an earlier release on Friday, the DOH initially said 18 residents around the state reported norovirus-like illness after eating oysters since March 7. Tuesday's release updated the number with another eight patients.
These cases are a part of a multi-state outbreak that spans 13 states across the entire country including the entire West Coast, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Each one of them consumed raw oysters that had been harvested in the region of BC 14-8 o 14-15, the DOH said. The regions include the Baynes Sound area from Deep Bay up through Union Bay.
Those who order oysters should ensure they are not harvested from this region or ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees for 15 seconds. This will ensure that any potential norovirus is killed.
Norovirus infection can cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, nausea, fever and headache. These symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after consumption and can last up to three days.
Most patients recover from the virus without treatment, however, those who think they became sick after eating raw or uncooked shellfish should speak to their physician and notify their local health department.
Those who become infected with the virus can spread it easily to others. To prevent the spread of disease, residents should wash their hands carefully with soap and warm water after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
Those who have compromised immune systems, are being treated for cancer, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions are at an increased risk of severe illness.
The DOH advises everyone to use soap and water to clean toilets and other areas that may be soiled with stool or vomit.
Last year, a customer sued a Shoreline restaurant after being one of 23 people who developed norovirus-like symptoms after eating there.
Most recently in western Washington, 11 people became ill with suspected norovirus in August 2021 after eating at a Renton restaurant.
