Federal health officials have issued a warning about recalled oysters and clams distributed in four U.S. States due to potential norovirus contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers, retailers, and restaurants to discard the affected shellfish, which were harvested from a specific area in Washington state and sold to businesses in California, Oregon, Texas, and Washington.
The recall involves all shellstock harvested by Gomez Shellfish between March 22 and April 9, 2026, from a portion of Hammersley Inlet in Washington. Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal illness, cannot be detected by sight, smell, or taste, making it particularly dangerous in raw or undercooked shellfish. Health authorities emphasize that even if the seafood appears normal, it may still pose a serious health risk.
Symptoms of norovirus infection typically include sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, often accompanied by fever, headache, and body aches. Illness usually begins 12 to 48 hours after exposure and lasts one to three days for most people, though dehydration can occur quickly, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
The FDA recommends that anyone who has purchased the recalled oysters or clams should not consume them under any circumstances. Instead, the product should be thrown away immediately, and any surfaces, utensils, or containers that came into contact with the shellfish should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Retailers and restaurants are urged to check their inventory and remove the recalled items from sale.
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for millions of cases each year. It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and direct contact with infected individuals. Outbreaks are more common during colder months, partly because the virus remains stable in cooler environments and people tend to gather indoors more frequently.
Public health officials continue to monitor the situation and advise individuals who develop symptoms after consuming shellfish to seek medical attention and report their illness to local health departments. Tracking cases helps authorities identify potential outbreaks and prevent further spread.
For the most current information on food recalls and safety alerts, consumers can visit the FDA’s official website or the Foods.gov recall portal. These resources provide up-to-date listings of affected products, distribution details, and guidance on safe food handling practices.
As of now, no additional recalls have been announced related to this specific harvest area, but officials remain vigilant. The FDA and state health agencies are working to trace the full distribution path of the recalled shellfish and ensure that all potentially affected products are removed from circulation.
Staying informed about food safety advisories is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from preventable illnesses. When in doubt, throw it out — especially when it comes to raw shellfish.
Have you checked your recent seafood purchases for this recall? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below, and help spread awareness by sharing this article with others who may be affected.