Norovirus Outbreak at LA Restaurant Celebration

A gathering meant to honor the premier dining establishments in Los Angeles resulted in at least 80 individuals contracting norovirus, a situation that authorities linked to raw oysters served at the event. This outbreak was confirmed by the LA County Department of Public Health to ABC News.

The incident took place during a function at the Hollywood Palladium, which was organized to celebrate the Los Angeles Times' selection of the 101 top restaurants on December 3, as reported by the health department.

Norovirus, often referred to as the stomach flu or bug, is highly infectious and causes symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is a leading contributor to foodborne illness in the United States. Additional symptoms can include stomach aches, fever, headache, muscle pains, and dehydration. The CDC emphasizes that thorough handwashing, cleaning contaminated surfaces, using hot water for laundry, and staying home when symptomatic can help curb its spread.

Details of the Outbreak

Over 80 people who consumed the oysters reported illnesses, stated a spokesperson from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The affected oysters were identified as Fanny Bay Select and Fanny Bay XS from Pacific Northwest Shellfish Co.

These oysters, packaged on or after November 25, were recalled on December 13, according to the health agency. Subsequently, a warning was released on December 18 advising restaurants, retailers, and consumers, across 15 states including Hawaii, California, and New York, to avoid selling or eating these oysters due to possible norovirus contamination.

The Source and Response

The FDA has indicated that the contamination is likely to have originated in British Columbia, Canada. Santa Monica Seafood, responsible for supplying the oysters at the event, confirmed their awareness of the ongoing investigation and are cooperating fully with the Public Health Department.

The supplier mentioned that current findings do not show any mishandling within their supply chain, including by Santa Monica Seafood or any participating restaurants at the LA Times event.

Tickets to the LA Times restaurant celebration, where the outbreak occurred, were priced between $264 for general entry to over $600 for VIP access. ABC News has requested comments from the L.A. Times regarding the situation.