2005 Multistate Outbreak of Hepatitis A Linked to Raw Oysters

Oysters harvested from specific areas in the Gulf Coast were the cause of a multi-state outbreak of Hepatitis A starting in August. The oysters were harvested prior to Hurricane Katrina, so they were not contaminated by the effects of the storm, but rather by waste-water discharge from a boat. Interestingly, this outbreak utilized molecular testing of blood samples and of the oysters to establish the link among the cases and the oysters.

Overview

Outbreak began:August 2005
Affected country:US
States/territories:AL, FL, SC, TN
Pathogen:Hepatitis
Vehicle(s):Oysters
Location(s):Retail
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:39
Number hospitalized:3

Sources & documents

Recall notices
Report / reference links