What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus, often referred to as "the stomach flu," is a common cause of winter "stomach bugs" and food poisoning. It is highly contagious and spreads rapidly, with outbreaks frequently occurring in schools and on cruise ships.
Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms usually subside within a day, but recovery may take longer for those experiencing severe vomiting, frequent diarrhea, or difficulty eating and drinking.
Why Is Shellfish a Common Source of Norovirus Outbreaks?
Eating contaminated food is a common way to catch norovirus, with outbreaks frequently linked to shellfish like oysters and clams. Shellfish are filter feeders, meaning they draw in water to extract nutrients, which can contaminate sewage that flows into water sources where shellfish live. Over time, these pathogens accumulate in their bodies, making them a frequent source of norovirus outbreaks.
Recalled Oysters and Manila Clams
The FDA has issued warnings about oysters and Manila clams that may be contaminated with norovirus. The products were harvested by Rudy’s Shellfish in Washington from November 15 to December 11 and shipped to Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Washington. On December 18, more oysters were recalled by San Francisco-based S&M Shellfish Co., which were harvested in British Columbia, Canada between December 1 and December 9 and distributed in at least 14 states.
What to Do If You Have Purchased Recalled Shellfish
Retailers and restaurants have been advised to stop selling the affected seafood, while consumers who may have purchased these products are urged to discard them. If you have purchased oysters or Manila clams recently, check if they are part of the recent recalls. Contaminated shellfish may look and taste normal. Discard any affected products and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms arise.
Conclusion
Norovirus is a common cause of food poisoning and winter "stomach bugs." It is highly contagious and spreads rapidly, with outbreaks frequently occurring in schools and on cruise ships. Shellfish are a common source of norovirus outbreaks due to their ability to accumulate pathogens in their bodies. If you have purchased recalled oysters or Manila clams, it is essential to check if they are part of the recent recalls and discard them to avoid potential health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a common cause of winter "stomach bugs" and food poisoning. - How does norovirus spread?
Norovirus spreads easily through unwashed hands, contaminated surfaces, and food prepared or served by infected individuals. - What are the symptoms of norovirus?
Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. - How can I avoid getting norovirus?
Avoid eating contaminated food, wash your hands frequently, and report any symptoms to your healthcare provider.
