US investigates Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled oysters

US health authorities are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters harvested in Virginia, with 27 people reported ill and five hospitalised, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The outbreak has been associated with oysters harvested by Little Wicomico Oyster Company from the Little Wicomico River area in Virginia. The company recalled the affected products on October 9 after health officials traced a common source among people who reported eating raw oysters.

In an update published on October 19, the CDC said the infections had been reported across 12 states. No deaths had been reported at the time of the update.

The recalled oysters were harvested between September 18 and October 8, 2026. They were distributed to restaurants and retailers in several US states, including California, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia, as well as other locations.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised consumers not to eat the affected oysters and instructed restaurants and retailers not to sell or serve them. Businesses were advised to discard the products or contact their distributors to arrange for their destruction.

The Virginia Department of Health also temporarily closed the affected section of the Little Wicomico River to shellfish harvesting, while the company stopped harvesting from the area and cooperated with investigators.

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According to the CDC, 10 of the 13 people interviewed during the investigation reported eating raw oysters before becoming ill. Investigators also found that oysters from the company’s harvest area were the only source common to seven patients whose oyster consumption could be traced.

A sample of oysters collected in Pennsylvania tested positive for Salmonella. Officials said further laboratory analysis was pending to determine whether the bacteria found in the sample matched the strain responsible for the outbreak.

Salmonella infection can cause diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. Symptoms typically begin between six hours and six days after exposure, and most people recover within four to seven days. However, young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems may develop more severe illness.

The CDC warned that the reported number of cases may not represent the full scale of the outbreak because some people recover without seeking medical attention or undergoing testing. Recent infections may also take several weeks to be identified and linked to an outbreak.

Consumers who may have handled the recalled oysters are advised to wash and sanitise surfaces and utensils that came into contact with them.

(CDC)