Eating raw oysters is a popular delicacy for many. An easy way to enjoy an exotic meal without too much work! If you’re planning to eat oysters, it’s important you understand their health risks beforehand.
Following an increase in the number of instances of norovirus across the previous week, the Vancouver city’s health department is alerting citizens about the danger of contracting the virus by consuming raw oysters.
Vancouver Coastal Health is warning consumers to take steps to protect their health following an increase in cases of norovirus associated with consumption of raw B.C. oysters.
Read the full bulletin to learn more: https://t.co/BAE3pNnIhM pic.twitter.com/wtmcAdArT2
— Vancouver Coastal Health (@VCHhealthcare) March 19, 2022
Well over 50 individuals have already been impacted by severe gastrointestinal sickness starting Monday as a result of having uncooked oysters, according to an announcement made by Vancouver Coastal Health.
Many instances were verified to be caused by norovirus, while some were believed to be caused by norovirus based on laboratory tests.
Gastrointestinal ache, incontinence, and puking have all been reported as manifestations. Nausea, cramps, shivering, fever, vomiting, & diarrhea are all typical symptoms of the norovirus infection. The onset of complications is usually between 12 and 48 hours after swallowing raw oysters.
The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control has also already issued a warning to diners and stores, informing them of the potential danger.
If oysters are completely finished cooking, the norovirus as well as other viruses may be eliminated, as well as additional pathogens. According to Vancouver Coastal Health, oysters must be prepared until they reach a core temperature of 90 degrees Celsius for 90 seconds prior to consumption, and therefore really shouldn’t be consumed raw.
It’s important to remember that this is a relatively rare event, and that it is still possible to consume raw oysters safely. But with the weather getting nice, and people gearing up for barbecue season, it’s also important to be aware of the risk so you can make informed decisions about your own health. After all, you should never have to sacrifice your health in order to enjoy some delicious seafood.
