Norovirus from Oysters in Sweden and Other Countries

Denmark and Sweden have reported cases of norovirus n persons who consumed contaminated oysters from France where 1,033 people became ill. A total of 170 people were affected in Denmark and 70 in Sweden. Some of the Swedish patients may have consumed Swedish oysters. Italy and the Netherlands have also reported outbreaks linked to live oysters from France. In France, a total of 23 shellfish growing zones in seven regions have been closed with more than 400 companies affected.

Advice

Although oysters have been withdrawn from the marketplace in several European countries, travellers should avoid consuming raw oysters for the present until the safety of oyster sources can be verified. Other raw shellfish and crustaceans may also be contaminated. Travellers can reduce the risk of exposure to norovirus by taking all necessary precautions to avoid contaminated food and water. Travellers should be aware that this group of viruses is very common, and they may persist for some time on inanimate objects such as bannisters, doorknobs and other surfaces touched by ill persons. Good personal hygiene, especially hand washing, helps to reduce the risk of exposure and infection.