Health officials in California issue warning about norovirus in raw oysters imported from Korea

The California Department of Public Health recently issued a warning to distributors and retailers regarding raw oysters from a Korean company that may be linked to norovirus cases. The oysters in question are from JBR Inc., based in Tongyeongsi, South Korea, and have been connected to at least 33 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus among patrons who dined at three restaurants in San Diego County in late March and April.

The oysters were shipped under the unique identifier “KR 15 SP” on the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List, and may also be labeled as “Amazing Sea Brand.” Two California distributors, S.J. Distributors LLC and Great Wall Seafood LA LLC, have issued recalls of the oysters. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in the Republic of Korea has advised the company to voluntarily recall the distributed lots as well. Restaurants and retailers with the affected raw oysters are being urged to dispose of any remaining product.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal illness, spreading person-to-person and through contaminated surfaces and food. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps lasting for one to three days. For more information on shellfish advisories, visit the California Department of Public Health website.