The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning for consumers not to eat raw oysters from Growing Area 3 harvested between December 3 and December 21, 2007 because these oysters may be contaminated with norovirus. There have been two reports of confirmed norovirus after consumers ate raw oysters.

Norovirus can cause symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping, as well as low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. Most norovirus infections manifest into symptoms within 48 hours of exposure. The young, elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems are especially at risk for serious illness.

The FDA urges consumers to ask the place of purchase if the oysters are from Growing Area 3. However, the original shipper of the potentially-contaminated oysters was Prestige Oyster Company. Any consumers who consumed raw oysters on December 3 or later, and showed signs of illness, should contact their doctor and local health department.

Furthermore, the FDA is offering advice to restaurants and consumers who enjoy oysters in this release. The FDA advises consumers that it is always best to cook seafood thoroughly to minimize the risks of foodborne illnesses.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, ?FDA Warns Consumers Not to Eat Raw Oysters Harvested from the West Karako Bay Section of Growing Area 3 in Louisiana,? December 29, 2007.