UK: FSA assesses risk of norovirus from oysters

Scientists at the Food Standards Agency (FSA) have looked at the key topics to consider when dealing with norovirus outbreaks linked to oysters. Microbiological experts at the FSA assessed the public health risk of raw oysters, to help with development of risk management options during outbreaks. Work was done in response to recurring norovirus outbreaks linked to consumption of raw oysters. In England, between 2013 and 2022, there were 1,307 cases of norovirus linked to oysters. In Scotland, from 2017 to 2023, there were 259 reported cases. In the same periods, there were 28 outbreaks in England and eight in Scotland caused by oysters. Earlier this month, two incidents of norovirus in oysters from France were reported to have sickened six people in Norway and 14 in Sweden. Request for guidance and risk management optionsTesting options for norovirus are limited and unreliable, said the FSA. The virus can be detected and quantified in foods including oysters, but tests can’t ...