Eating raw oysters more dangerous in summer

Raw oysters are a menu staple in the Northwest, but the Washington State Department of Health says they’re more likely to make you sick in the summer.

So far this summer, 22 people have gotten ill after eating raw oysters that contained the Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria. The bacteria causes Vibriosis, which is an intestinal disease that leads to diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, headache, vomiting, fever and chills.

It is more common in people who harvest their own oysters rather than those who eat oysters that have been commercially harvested.

“There’s generally a greater risk for people who harvest themselves because most people aren’t aware of the Vibrio illness or ease at which these bacteria reproduce,” said Richard Lillie with the DOH.

He said those who choose to harvest their own oysters should avoid picking those that have been above water for a long period of time, get them as cold as possible as soon as possible, and cook them rather than eat them raw.

Vibriosis is not known to be deadly, although those with lowered immune systems or chronic liver disease can suffer more serious symptoms.