A festive event celebrating Los Angeles’ top restaurants left over 80 attendees sick with norovirus, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed. The outbreak was traced to raw oysters served at the Hollywood Palladium during the Los Angeles Times’ “101 Best Restaurants” event on December 3.
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Norovirus: A Contagious Threat
Norovirus, commonly referred to as the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug,” is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and other symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the United States.
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The CDC advises preventive measures such as thorough handwashing, disinfecting contaminated surfaces, washing laundry in hot water, and staying home while ill to prevent the spread of the virus.
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Raw Oysters Identified as the Source
Health officials identified the contaminated food as Fanny Bay Select oysters and Fanny Bay XS oysters from Pacific Northwest Shellfish Co. The oysters were packed on or after November 25 and were subsequently recalled.
“At this time, over 80 attendees that consumed the oysters have reported illness,” a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated.
The recall, issued on December 13, was followed by a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning on December 18, advising restaurants, retailers, and consumers in 15 states—including California, Arizona, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and New York—not to sell or eat the oysters due to potential norovirus contamination.
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Outbreak’s Connection to British Columbia
The FDA has traced the outbreak to oysters originating in British Columbia, Canada.
Santa Monica Seafood, the supplier of the oysters served at the event, stated they are cooperating fully with the investigation.
“There is no evidence to suggest mishandling at any point in the supply chain, including by Santa Monica Seafood or any of the restaurants participating in the LA Times event,” the company said in a statement to media.
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Impact on Eventgoers
The Los Angeles Times’ restaurant celebration was a high-profile affair, with ticket prices ranging from $264 for general admission to over $600 for VIP access.
