In a recent health scare, oysters served at 100s Seafood Grill Buffet in Mission Valley, San Diego, have been implicated in an alarming norovirus outbreak. Local health officials have identified 11 cases of norovirus illness likely linked to oyster consumption at the restaurant. The infection occurred between March 31 and April 1, affecting patrons who ate oysters imported from South Korea. So far, one individual required emergency room treatment due to the severity of symptoms. This is the second oyster-related norovirus outbreak in San Diego this year. In January, multiple people were sickened after consuming contaminated oysters imported from Mexico.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has now issued a warning, urging all restaurants and retailers selling frozen, raw half-shell oysters to check and confirm the origin of their supply. Specifically, they are cautioning against consuming oysters with the following information:
- Processor: JBR (KR 15 SP) in Tongyeongsi, Republic of Korea
- Lot numbers: B231126, B240103, and B240214
- Processing Dates: 11/27/2023, 11/4/2024, 2/15/2024
- Name: These oysters may be labeled under the brand name Amazing Sea Brand
Norovirus, notorious for causing gastrointestinal distress, manifests with symptoms such as body aches, diarrhea, fever, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. The incubation period is typically 12 to 48 hours after consuming contaminated food. Although sickness usually lasts for one to three days, severe cases can lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations like young children, seniors, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Consumers should seek medical help if symptoms of dehydration develop, such as decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and sudden dizziness when standing up. Local health officials have recommended that anyone who ate the contaminated restaurant oysters, and who feels sick, should visit their doctor to be evaluated.
The investigation is ongoing, with San Diego County’s Epidemiology Program and Department of Environmental Health collaborating with the California Department of Public Health.
According to one national food safety attorney, “This norovirus outbreak again highlights the importance of food safety vigilance. As consumers, we must remain informed about the sources of our seafood and exercise caution to protect our health.”
