Washington State Recall
- Affected Products: Oysters and Manila clams harvested by Rudy’s Shellfish.
- Harvest Dates: November 15 to December 11, 2024.
- Recall Initiation: Announced on December 12, 2024, after potential norovirus contamination was detected.
- Distribution: Contaminated shellfish distributed to Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Washington. The FDA warns that the products may appear normal despite contamination.
- Health Risks: Norovirus can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, especially for immunocompromised individuals.
Canadian Recall
- Affected Products: Oysters sold under Fanny Bay, Buckley Bay, and Royal Miyagi from British Columbia.
- Harvest Dates: December 1 to December 9, 2024.
- Recall Initiation: Issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) following a suspected outbreak linked to these oysters.
- Affected Provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
- Health Advisory: Consumers are advised to avoid consuming the recalled oysters and return them to the place of purchase.
Consumer Guidance
- The FDA and CFIA urge consumers to dispose of these products immediately.
- Restaurants and retailers are instructed to halt sales of the affected shellfish and adhere to strict sanitization protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
Recognizing Symptoms of Foodborne Illness
Common Symptoms of Food Poisoning
- Nausea and Vomiting: Typically the first signs, occurring within hours of ingestion.
- Diarrhea: May include watery or bloody stools, often beginning within 6–48 hours.
- Stomach Cramps: Varying in intensity, often accompany other symptoms.
- Fever: A mild fever may develop.
- Headaches and Muscle Aches: General malaise as the body fights infection.
Specific Symptoms Related to Shellfish Poisoning
- Neurological Symptoms: Tingling, numbness, sensitivity to temperature, dizziness, and weakness in severe cases like ciguatera poisoning.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Persistent diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate care if experiencing:
- Severe dehydration or inability to retain fluids.
- High fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C).
- Blood in stool or vomit.
- Symptoms persisting beyond a few days.
- Neurological issues such as blurred vision or paralysis.
These recalls underline the critical importance of food safety and vigilance in monitoring seafood products to prevent illnesses linked to contamination.