UK: Risk assessment to support guidance for norovirus outbreaks in oysters

Risk assessment to support guidance for norovirus outbreaks in oysters. The microbiological team at the FSA has assessed the public health risk of raw oysters with a range of norovirus RNA levels, to assist with development of risk management options during outbreaks. Background This assessment has been commissioned in response to recurring outbreaks of norovirus linked to the consumption of raw oysters. Each outbreak requires food safety and health protection resource to manage, as well as having a direct and indirect impact on consumers and on businesses involved, and further guidance has been requested to deal with norovirus outbreaks. Summary Norovirus is a type of virus which can cause a mild illness. Norovirus can sometimes contaminate food, accounting for up to 16% of infections. Oysters are a notable source of norovirus, in terms of risk per serving, particularly because oysters are typically consumed raw. In England, between 2013 – 2022, there were 1,307 reported cases of ...