Mason County oysters, clams recalled after 5 people sickened with possible norovirus

Oysters and clams harvested in Mason County are being recalled for possible norovirus contamination after being linked to five illnesses in Whatcom County.

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recalled the shellfish harvested by Gomez Shellfish, LLC, which was shipped to Washington, Oregon, and California, including Whatcom County, Whatcom County announced.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) confirmed that local businesses are no longer selling or serving the potentially contaminated products. WCHCS advised that if anyone has the recalled product, they should throw it away.

5 people ill with norovirus symptoms after eating Mason County shellfish

Five people in Whatcom County were recently identified with illnesses linked to the oysters included in the recall. Symptoms included vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue, occurring roughly 1-2 days after consuming the raw shellfish. Whatcom County noted these symptoms are consistent with norovirus-like illness.

The oysters affected by the recall were sold at the Community Food Co-op’s downtown store between March 27 and March 31.

The recalled oysters were also served at two restaurants: Rock & Rye between March 29 and April 4, and Keenan’s at the Pier between March 19 and March 23, and between March 29 and April 3.

Additional information is available on the DOH Food Recalls and Safety Alerts page.

Consuming raw shellfish increases the risk of foodborne illness. Norovirus and other bacterial pathogens can be present in raw shellfish. Whatcom County recommends cooking all molluscan shellfish to 145 degrees before eating.

Consumers who have symptoms of norovirus infection are urged to contact their health care provider to report symptoms and receive care. Those who believe they may have gotten sick from consuming shellfish can report suspected foodborne illness online.

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