Recently, Area 29 which is an oyster bed located along the banks of lower Calcasieu Lake just south of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was closed down due to being suspected in a Norovirus outbreak back in November and December that resulted in hundreds of people becoming sick in Raleigh, NC. Many patrons became ill after eating at the 42nd St. Oyster Bar, which is located in Raleigh.
As Norovirus became suspected, investigations eventually pointed toward Area 29, which closed down on January 14th after a closure order was signed by the state health officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry, and Dr. M. Rony Francois of the Department of Health and Hospitals. Area 29 was evaluated by Louisiana’s Molluscan Shellfish Program, and has since been cleared to reopen and opened on the 20th of January.
The Department of Health and Hospitals determined that the growing waters in Lower Calcasieu Lake are suitable for harvesting oysters. According to public health officials in Raleigh, approximately 280 individuals became ill late last year after eating at the 42nd St. Oyster Bar, which gets their oyster supply from the vicinity of Area 29. The waters in the area are still being monitored by DHH.
Oysters and other shellfish are often the foods responsible for the majority of Norovirus food poisoning outbreaks. Eating these foods raw, which many people do, puts individuals at higher risk of becoming ill. Eating shellfish that have not been cooked or heated increases the chances of becoming infected with Norovirus. Once infected, those who handle foods may contaminate other foods with the bacteria, which spreads the infection to others and can potentially cause widespread outbreaks.
Norovirus bacteria can get in to foods such as oysters and other shellfish through sewage run off. The foodborne illness can be spread when those who become infected do not take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the bacteria. Norovirus usually causes stomach flu like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea. In some instances, serious complications can develop. Norovirus food poisoning attorney’s can help you determine whether you have a case because of your injuries.
Most people recover in just a few days without any lingering health effects, however young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems are more at risk. Severe dehydration, malnutrition and even death can be a result of Norovirus. Those most at risk should contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of Norovirus.
