Norovirus Outbreak: Raw Oysters Linked To 41 Cases In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Dozens of people have gotten sick after eating raw oysters in San Diego County.

County health officials have linked 41 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus to raw oysters imported from a specific harvest location in Northwest Mexico. Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The cases began in mid-December when people dined on raw oysters from Sonora, Mexico, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency. The oysters were only available through restaurants and wholesale locations.

Health officials have asked those who purchased “Rocky Point oysters,” packed by GOLPAC in Bahia Salina, Sonora, to not eat or serve them until the outbreak investigation is completed.

To date, the cases have been tied to oysters served at The Fish Shop restaurants in Encinitas, Pacific Beach and Point Loma, as well as the Carlsbad Aquafarm. Health officials said other locations may emerge during the investigation.

The people who got sick reported eating raw oysters a day or two in advance of symptoms, according to the county. Cases range in age from 12 to 83 years old. Symptoms reported included nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. None of the illnesses required hospitalization.

Several household members, including children, who did not eat the oysters have subsequently become ill likely due to spread within the home, according to the county.

“The county recommends that people ask where oysters were harvested when eating out or getting food from wholesale locations to avoid consuming Rocky Point oysters from Bahia Salina, Sonora, Mexico,” said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county’s public health officer. “It’s also important for anyone who is sick to seek medical care. People who are ill, and those that live with them, should wash their hands frequently to avoid contaminating surfaces and foods that could further spread the infection.”

The County Health and Human Services Agency is working with the California Department of Public Health, including the Shellfish Program, to investigate illnesses associated with oysters.

To report illness to the county after dining out or purchasing from wholesale food locations, call 858-505-6814 or email fhdepi@sdcounty.ca.gov.