December 29, 2023--Four days before welcoming the new year, the Gironde province announced a temporary ban on the sale of oysters from Bassin d'Arcachon due to "several collective food poisoning incidents" linked to the norovirus. While "no severe cases have been identified" at the moment, a traceability investigation is underway. Here are some practical answers to key questions about the current situation:
Know the origin of the oysters you are purchasing or planning to purchase. Currently, only four oyster farms within France are closed, including Bassin d'Arcachon, with others under scrutiny. While oysters from Bassin d'Arcachon are prohibited from sale, oysters from areas outside Gironde have been confirmed as safe for consumption.
People associated with consuming oysters from Bassin d'Arcachon have experienced symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and fever. During the Christmas period, the Public Health Authority also noted an increase in patients presenting gastrointestinal symptoms related to the same food source in emergency rooms in the region.
Given that the appearance of oysters does not indicate whether they are diseased, ordinary consumers cannot distinguish between healthy and unhealthy oysters; only veterinary services can conduct testing. Currently, all oysters in the market are confirmed as healthy for consumption. It is recommended that individuals infected with the norovirus avoid contact with food about to be consumed and seek emergency services or consult a doctor if necessary.
Local oyster farmers face unexpected challenges due to the sales ban. Although it has impacted Christmas sales, some farmers express relief that "Christmas has been saved." Nevertheless, this remains a severe financial blow, leading many farmers to seek alternative sources to fulfill orders.
Current investigations suggest that norovirus contamination may be related to heavy autumn rainfall, causing a large influx of freshwater into the Arcachon Bay, putting stress on the local ecosystem. Regulatory authorities are investigating pollution sources to formulate future preventive measures.
The Gironde provincial government has issued the oyster sales ban and pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the source of the norovirus. The investigation results will contribute to shaping future regulatory policies to ensure the safety of oysters.
Through this press release, we aim to convey key information about the current events on a foundation of accuracy, clarity, and objectivity to guide the public in remaining vigilant during this moment.
Know the origin of the oysters you are purchasing or planning to purchase. Currently, only four oyster farms within France are closed, including Bassin d'Arcachon, with others under scrutiny. While oysters from Bassin d'Arcachon are prohibited from sale, oysters from areas outside Gironde have been confirmed as safe for consumption.
People associated with consuming oysters from Bassin d'Arcachon have experienced symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and fever. During the Christmas period, the Public Health Authority also noted an increase in patients presenting gastrointestinal symptoms related to the same food source in emergency rooms in the region.
Given that the appearance of oysters does not indicate whether they are diseased, ordinary consumers cannot distinguish between healthy and unhealthy oysters; only veterinary services can conduct testing. Currently, all oysters in the market are confirmed as healthy for consumption. It is recommended that individuals infected with the norovirus avoid contact with food about to be consumed and seek emergency services or consult a doctor if necessary.
Local oyster farmers face unexpected challenges due to the sales ban. Although it has impacted Christmas sales, some farmers express relief that "Christmas has been saved." Nevertheless, this remains a severe financial blow, leading many farmers to seek alternative sources to fulfill orders.
Current investigations suggest that norovirus contamination may be related to heavy autumn rainfall, causing a large influx of freshwater into the Arcachon Bay, putting stress on the local ecosystem. Regulatory authorities are investigating pollution sources to formulate future preventive measures.
The Gironde provincial government has issued the oyster sales ban and pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the source of the norovirus. The investigation results will contribute to shaping future regulatory policies to ensure the safety of oysters.
Through this press release, we aim to convey key information about the current events on a foundation of accuracy, clarity, and objectivity to guide the public in remaining vigilant during this moment.
