The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for certain oysters sold in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario following a suspected norovirus outbreak in B.C. that has sickened dozens.
The recall, announced Saturday, affects specific lots of Fanny Bay, Sunseeker, and Cloudy Bay oysters distributed by Taylor Shellfish Canada ULC. The CFIA warns that the products may be contaminated with norovirus and should not be consumed.
The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) reported that between November 1 and December 18, 64 cases of norovirus-like gastrointestinal illnesses were linked to the consumption of raw oysters from restaurants and local retailers. Symptoms reported include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain, with some individuals seeking emergency care. No hospitalizations have been reported.
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus, causes stomach-related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramps. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), oysters can become contaminated with the virus through sewage-tainted waters during harvesting.
Symptoms of norovirus infection typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Most individuals recover within a few days, though severe cases may require medical attention.
The CFIA noted that most of the recalled oysters were harvested and processed in early December, with some harvested as early as November 27. The agency is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to further recalls.
