A Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters harvested in Virginia has sickened 27 people across 12 US states, prompting a recall and a warning to consumers, restaurants and food retailers.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), five people have been hospitalised, while no deaths have been reported in the outbreak under investigation.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified the affected products as whole, shellstock oysters harvested by Little Wicomico Oyster Company from Virginia’s Little Wicomico River between September 18 and October 8, 2026.
The company voluntarily recalled the oysters on October 9 after public health authorities linked the products to illnesses. The CDC and FDA issued public alerts on October 19 as investigations continued.
The recalled oysters were distributed to restaurants and retailers in several states, including California, Florida, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They may also have reached other locations through further distribution.
Authorities have advised consumers not to eat the affected oysters and instructed restaurants and retailers not to sell or serve them. The Virginia Department of Health has also temporarily closed the affected harvesting area.
What Consumers Should Know About Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause an intestinal infection known as salmonellosis. Common symptoms include diarrhoea, fever and abdominal cramps.
Symptoms typically develop between six hours and six days after exposure. Most people recover within four to seven days, although some infections can become severe. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness.
Raw oysters can carry harmful microorganisms because they filter water as they feed. Contaminated shellfish may look, smell and taste normal, meaning consumers cannot reliably identify unsafe products by appearance alone.
The CDC advises anyone who has purchased the recalled oysters to discard them or return them through the appropriate supplier. Restaurants and retailers should stop serving or selling the affected products and thoroughly clean and sanitise surfaces, containers and utensils that may have come into contact with them.
People who develop severe or persistent diarrhoea, bloody stools, a high fever or signs of dehydration should seek medical attention.
The recall applies specifically to oysters harvested by Little Wicomico Oyster Company from the identified Virginia growing area during the specified dates. Authorities have clarified that oysters harvested from other Virginia growing areas are not included in this recall.
The investigation remains ongoing as public health officials work to determine the full extent of the outbreak and prevent further illnesses.
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