Raw Oysters Linked to Norovirus Outbreak at L.A. Times 101 Best Restaurants Event
Health officials are investigating a possible norovirus outbreak after dozens of people fell ill following the consumption of raw oysters at the L.A. Times 101 Best Restaurants event.
Outbreak Details
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed over 80 attendees reported experiencing symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. These illnesses appear to be linked to raw oysters served at the December 3rd event, which have since been recalled.
Recalled Oysters and Wider Concern
The oysters causing concern originated from Fanny Bay Oysters, sourced by Santa Monica Seafood, a sponsor of the event. They were a part of a menu offered by one of the featured restaurants in the “101 Best Restaurants” list.
In a related development, just days before the event, the California Department of Public Health issued a warning against consuming raw oysters harvested from British Columbia. This resulted in a subsequent advisory from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration urging restaurants and retailers not to sell these oysters due to potential norovirus contamination. The company supplying the oysters, Fanny Bay Oysters, has issued an urgent recall, urging consumers not to eat them.
L.A. Times Response
The Los Angeles Times expressed their commitment to food safety, stating they had protocols in place and were in compliance with safety standards. In a statement, Hillary Manning, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Times, said: “We have produced culinary events for many years and take food safety very seriously. As is the case with each of our events, we had protocols in place and, based on an inspection from the L.A. County Department of Public Health, we were in compliance with all relevant safety standards. We also know the care that each chef and restaurant takes in preparing and serving food to our community.”
Invisible Threat
Norovirus cannot be detected by taste, smell, or appearance, making it difficult for vendors or restaurants to identify contaminated shellfish.
Investigation Ongoing
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is actively investigating the outbreak. Anyone who attended the event and experienced symptoms is urged to contact their healthcare provider.
It is important to note that symptoms of norovirus infection can appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and typically last 1 to 3 days.