The United States Center for Disease Control and regulatory officials in several states are warning consumers not to eat oysters imported from a particular estuary in Mexico after gastrointestinal illnesses were reported.
The CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are investigating an outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses linked to raw oysters harvested from Estero El Cardon, an estuary in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Sixteen people in five states (Alaska, California, Illinois, New Hampshire, and Nevada) reported illnesses after eating raw oysters at restaurants in California and Nevada. Two individuals were hospitalized but no deaths have been reported from the outbreak, the CDC said in a press release.
Estero El Cardon was closed to further oyster harvesting on 7 May, pending an investigation.
Seafood wholesaler DiCarlo Seafood in Wilmington, California, recalled raw oysters from the estuary on 6 May. Its oysters were distributed to Fresh Endeavors in Los Angeles, California; Fish Market Restaurant in San Diego, California; and Tony’s Fish Market in Redondo Beach, California.
“Do not eat, serve, or sell oysters harvested from Estero El Cardon, an estuary in Baja California Sur, Mexico,” CDC said.
In addition, the agency advises against eating raw or undercooked oysters or other shellfish.
“Any raw oysters, not just the raw oysters linked to this outbreak, could contain harmful germs that could make you sick,” the agency warned. “Cook them thoroughly before eating.”
