San Diego County public health officials Thursday announced they are expanding an investigation into oyster-linked illnesses to include all oysters harvested from Mexico.
Health officials are recommending consumers and restaurants throw away any oysters imported from locations in Mexico until further notice.
According to the county Health and Human Services Agency, the local norovirus outbreak now includes 69 confirmed and probable cases. The severity of the infections in San Diego County has remained mild, with no hospitalizations reported to date. The initial investigations identified 41 probable and confirmed norovirus cases linked to oysters harvested in Sonora, Mexico. The sickened patrons dined at the Fish Shop chain and Carlsbad Aquafarm. Twenty-eight more cases have been added, including 20 who ate oysters from other food venues.
"The county recommends that people ask where oysters were harvested when eating out or getting food from wholesale locations to avoid consuming oysters imported from Mexico," said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, deputy county public health officer. "Norovirus is typically a mild illness but can cause dehydration especially for the very young and very old.
"Given the increasing number of cases, the chance for others at greater risk for more severe illness in the same home is also increased," Kadakia said. "I want to remind people who become ill, and those that live with them, to wash their hands frequently to avoid contaminating surfaces and foods that could further spread the infection."
(Photo local reporting partner 10News)