Overview

Federal health officials have issued a warning regarding certain raw oysters harvested in Washington state due to potential norovirus contamination. This alert follows reports of illnesses linked to oysters from the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company.

The affected oysters were harvested between February 13 and March 3, 2026, and health officials are urging consumers and restaurants to avoid these products.

Key details

  • The warning pertains to raw oysters harvested by the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company.
  • Harvest dates for the affected oysters are from February 13 to March 3, 2026.
  • Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that leads to gastrointestinal illness.
  • Manila clams harvested in the same area during the same period are also included in the recall.
  • The contaminated shellfish were distributed to restaurants and retailers in various states, including California.
  • Symptoms of norovirus typically manifest 12 to 48 hours post-exposure.
  • Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, fever, and body aches.
  • Contaminated shellfish may appear normal in terms of look, smell, and taste.
  • The FDA advises restaurants and retailers to cease serving the affected shellfish.
  • Consumers who have eaten the affected oysters should consult a healthcare provider if they develop symptoms.
  • Norovirus outbreaks are often associated with raw shellfish due to their filtration of large water volumes.
  • Individuals who purchased oysters from Drayton Harbor during the specified dates should discard them.

Context

This health alert underscores the risks associated with consuming raw shellfish, particularly in areas where water contamination can occur. The nature of norovirus makes it a significant public health concern, especially in food products like oysters that are often consumed raw.

What happens next

Restaurants and retailers are expected to comply with the FDA's guidance by removing the affected shellfish from their menus and inventory, while health officials will continue to monitor the situation and any further reports of illness.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific number of illnesses linked to the contaminated oysters, the exact distribution of the affected products, and whether any further recalls will be issued are not confirmed.