Norovirus Outbreak at LA Times’ Restaurant Event: Oysters Likely Culprit
A festive celebration turned sour earlier this month when dozens of attendees at the Los Angeles Times’ 101 Best Restaurants event fell ill with norovirus. The event, held at the Hollywood Palladium, reportedly sickened over 70 individuals, prompting an investigation by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Oysters: A Suspected Source
While the investigation is ongoing, initial reports point towards contaminated oysters as the likely source of the outbreak. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a warning regarding tainted oysters, specifically mentioning Fanny Bay brand oysters, which were confirmed to have been served at the event.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Times, Hillary Manning, confirmed that Fanny Bay Oysters, sourced from British Columbia, Canada, were provided by Santa Monica Seafood, a sponsor and seafood vendor for the event.
Symptoms and Precautions
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus, causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals infected with norovirus should prioritize rest and hydration.
Stay Informed
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety, especially when consuming shellfish. Always ensure seafood is sourced from reputable vendors and cooked thoroughly.
For the latest updates on this developing story, stay tuned to reputable news sources.
Have you been affected by this outbreak? Share your experiences in the comments below.
