After reviewing growing areas and processing centers, the FDA has taken Korean oysters, clams, mussels and scallops off the list of approved seafood. Possible contamination by human feces and norovirus means that consuming even canned versions of these items may lead to food poisoning.
It could be months before all South Korean sourced shellfish are recalled from the market, and in the short term it’s probable that many restaurants and grocery stores may not be aware. Check labels, and ask about the source of all shellfish in the short term. If you already have some at home, call the store to ask about where they bought it.
Stomach flu symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a risk of dehydration, especially in the summer. It’s important to drink plenty of water if you have vomiting or diarrhea, and if it’s severe, skip the water for something with electrolytes (many drinks made for kids will also do for adults, or you can try a sport drink).
If you think that you’ve been exposed to norovirus or another source of food poisoning, start drinking water and eating a probiotic such as yogurt immediately. Water keeps you hydrated as well as flushes the system (it also helps to water down stomach acid in the event of vomiting). A probiotics source (including probiotic supplements) may help to fight the virus and reduce stomach flu symptoms.
If you do develop stomach flu symptoms, you can be contagious for more than two weeks regardless of their duration. That means you should be extra cautious about washing your hands after the bathroom and before you handle food, or you could spread stomach flu to others or even reinfect yourself.
Did you spot Korean shellfish in your local market? Post what city you live in the comments:
