Restaurants and food retailers across nine states have been advised not to serve or sell certain raw oysters or Manila clams because they could cause “potentially severe illness,” according to an announcement by the Food and Drug Administration that also warned consumers “not to eat” the affected product.
The Shellfish Recall
The FDA announced a multistate recall for oysters and Manila clams harvested in Washington state after a cluster of norovirus‑like illnesses was linked to raw shellfish consumption.
The recall affects raw oysters that were harvested by the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company and Manila clams harvested by the Lummi Indian Business Council, according to a safety advisory notice from the FDA published on Monday.
Where the Shellfish Were Distributed
The FDA reported that the affected shellfish were harvested from Drayton Harbor in Washington between February 13 and March 3.
The raw oysters were distributed within Washington, while the Manila clams were shipped to restaurants and retailers in the following nine states:
- Arizona
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Nevada
- New York
- Oregon
- Washington
Health Risks Associated With the Shellfish Recall
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastrointestinal illness. While most cases usually resolve within a few days, the FDA warns that illness can be potentially severe, particularly for people with weakened immune systems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, norovirus symptoms can include the following:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last one to three days, though dehydration and complications may require medical attention in some cases.
The FDA emphasized that the norovirus-contaminated shellfish “may look, smell, and taste normal,” making it difficult for consumers to detect a problem before eating them.
What Consumers and Businesses Should Do
Consumers should not eat the contaminated shellfish, and the FDA is advising restaurants and food retailers that have purchased the affected oysters or clams to stop serving or selling them immediately. They should dispose of the products and thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces, containers or utensils that may have come into contact with the shellfish.
The FDA warned that shellfish can be a source of pathogens and said cross‑contamination is a concern if proper sanitation measures are not followed.
Consumers experiencing symptoms consistent with norovirus infection after eating oysters or clams are urged to contact their health care provider and report any illness to local health departments.
Status of the Recall
The Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference, a national organization that helps keep shellfish safe to eat in the U.S., said the distributors have contacted the retail establishments that received the affected shellfish. However, it’s likely that some of the product has already been consumed.
The FDA said it would continue monitoring the investigation and update its safety alert as more information becomes available, including whether additional states or products were affected.
In a polarized era, the center is dismissed as bland. At Newsweek, ours is different: The Courageous Center—it’s not “both sides,” it’s sharp, challenging and alive with ideas. We follow facts, not factions. If that sounds like the kind of journalism you want to see thrive, we need you.
When you become a Newsweek Member, you support a mission to keep the center strong and vibrant. Members enjoy: Ad-free browsing, exclusive content and editor conversations. Help keep the center courageous. Join today.
