The FDA is warning restaurants and food retailers to not sell certain frozen raw oysters from Korea because of illnesses reported by at least 10 people.
The oysters were frozen raw in individual half shell and block form and exported by Dai One Food Co. Ltd. of the Republic of Korea, according to the warning from the Food and Drug Administration.
“Consumers, especially those who are or could become pregnant, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems, who have recently consumed raw oysters in Hawaii, Georgia or Minnesota and suspect they have food poisoning should seek medical care immediately,” according to the warning.
The implicated oysters were harvested between Feb. 10, 2022, and Feb. 24, 2022, and on April 13, 2022, and April 14, 2022, from Designated Area No. II, and exported by Dai One Food Co., Ltd. of the Republic of Korea. The oysters have lot numbers D021031, D021041, and D020481.
The Korean company has recalled the implicated oysters.
On May 10 this year the Hawaii Department of Health notified the FDA of five illnesses from individuals who consumed raw oyster shooters at a restaurant in Hawaii on that date.
Traceback information revealed the source for the implicated raw oysters was from a shipment by Dai One Food Co. Ltd. harvested on April 13 and 14, 2022, from Designated Area No. II. Norovirus GII was detected in one of the two samples collected. Further traceback information identified shipments of oysters from the company harvested on April 13 and April, 2022, from Designated Area No. II were also distributed to Georgia.
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health notified the FDA of five norovirus illnesses in individuals who consumed raw oysters at a restaurant in Minnesota on June 3 and June 4 this year. Traceback information revealed the source for the implicated raw oysters was from a shipment by Dai One Food Co., Ltd., ROK, harvested between Feb. 10 and Feb. 24, 2022, in Designated Area No. II. These oysters were exported to a distributor in New York.
The FDA has notified State Shellfish Authorities and the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference (ISSC) of the import and harvest details. The FDA is continuing its investigation.
About norovirus
Symptoms of norovirus infection may include vomiting and/or diarrhea, nausea, muscle aches, fever, and headache, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms typically start 12 to 48 hours after exposure and usually last for one to three days. Most people recover without treatment, however some may need medical attention for dehydration.
People with norovirus infections can spread the infection easily to others. The virus can live o n surfaces for long periods of time. It can be spread by microscopic amounts of airborne saliva and vomit, as well as feces.
To prevent others from getting sick always wash hands carefully with soap and warm water after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
