FDA Alert on Norovirus Outbreak Linked to Korean Oysters

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers and seafood sellers about certain batches of raw, frozen oysters imported from the Republic of Korea. This alert comes after reports of a norovirus outbreak.

California Health Department's Notification
The California Department of Health reported a norovirus outbreak on April 9, initiating the chain of events that led to the FDA's announcement on April 16.
The specific batches under scrutiny are B231126, B240103, and B240214, produced by JBR (KR 15 SP) from Tongyeongsi, Korea, between late November 2023 and mid-February 2024.
The Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has instructed JBR to recall these oysters due to possible norovirus contamination.

Distribution Chain Concerns
There is a concern that these oysters may have been distributed beyond California, so it's crucial to trace and prevent further spread.

Implications for Consumers and Retailers
Norovirus, found in contaminated shellfish like oysters, can cause illness, especially in those with weakened immune systems. It may not alter the taste, smell, or appearance of food, making it challenging to detect.
Food handlers and retailers need to be cautious about cross-contamination, ensuring thorough cleaning of equipment and surfaces.

Recommended Procedures for Sanitation
A methodology should be applied to hand cleansing post-sanitation, utilizing warm water and soap as elementary but critical detergents.
Food Handlers and similar entities who have interacted with the suspect oyster stock must adopt a doctrine of fastidious cleaning and sanitizing of knives, cutting boards, and any utensils that potentially contaminated products have sullied.
Retailers who sell in bulk need to ensure the containers employed for these oysters are methodically sanitized and aligned with public health benchmarks.

Understanding Norovirus
Norovirus causes an array of symptoms, including emesis, diarrheal episodes, muscular disquiet, febrility, and cephalgia. The affliction typically occurs between 12 and 48 hours after exposure and persists for one to three days.
Although the majority recover without medical intervention, some cases may need healthcare attention, particularly to treat dehydration. The lurking presence of norovirus on surfaces demands stringent handwashing with soap and warm water, especially after using the restroom or changing diapers.
Norovirus's capacity for prolonged existence on surfaces renders it a formidable adversary, with even trace amounts capable of fostering robust transmission.

Preventive Measures to Mitigate Norovirus Transmission

1. Hand Hygiene: The cornerstone of prevention resides in scrupulous hand hygiene, an embodiment of a simple yet effective practice against contagion.
2. Decontamination of Surfaces and Fabrics: A concoction of household bleach and water emerges as the elixir for surface disinfection, soliciting the application of protective gloves when engaging in such sanitation.
3. Bleach Solution as a Disinfectant: One-third cup of household bleach married with one gallon of water proposes a chemical union poised to combat norovirus on hard surfaces.
4. Steam Cleaning for Non-Washable Materials: For those items resistant to laundry intervention, steam cleaning is suggested as a complementary remedy for soft surfaces.

Call to Action and Food Safety Support
In response to the outbreak, agencies are working to prevent further transmission through warnings and preventive guidelines.
For assistance in food safety management and response to such crises, GoHACCP with Experts offers tailored counsel and strategies for the gastronomic sector.

For further information and professional guidance on safeguarding against foodborne illnesses like norovirus, consider reaching out to GoHACCP with Experts. Our team is dedicated to supporting businesses in navigating complex food safety challenges.

Gerardo Fernández, Ph.D.in Biology.
Science Consultant at GoHACCP, dedicated to ensuring the safety and quality of food for consumers and manufacturers through scientific expertise and research.