DOH: Conn.-harvested oysters, clams recalled

PROVIDENCE – The Department of Health is advising restaurants, markets and consumers that raw and undercooked oysters and hard clams harvested from waters with specific lot numbers in Norwalk and Westport, Conn., have been named as the source of a number of illnesses related to the bacteria Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which can cause serious illness. According to the department, among the distributors who received the recalled shellfish was a distributor in Rhode Island, American Mussel.
The affected harvest dates are July 3 through Aug. 2.
The list of states and dealers receiving product is expected to grow as the product is shipped through the distribution chain, according to a statement. DOH said it is working with the Conn. Department of Agriculture and affected shippers to determine where product was shipped and to notify potential recipients.
According to the department, the recall does not include other products shipped by American Mussel or other identified shippers. In addition, the recall does not include any oysters or clams from Rhode Island waters.
Vibrio parahaemolyticus symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headache, fever and chills. The illness is usually mild or moderate, although some cases may require hospitalization, the department said.
To date, seven cases of Vibrio have been reported in Rhode Island this year, with two of these cases consuming shellfish from the affected area. •

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