Las Vegas-area health officials investigate illnesses associated with South Korean oysters

The Southern Nevada Health District is investigating five cases of gastrointestinal illness potentially linked to frozen half-shell oysters from South Korea, officials reported on May 6. The affected Clark County residents experienced vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain after consuming the oysters in April. No hospitalizations have occurred, and a confirmed epidemiological link has yet to be established. Health authorities are collaborating with state and federal agencies to trace the source and determine the cause. Symptoms may also include fever, chills, fatigue, and body aches. Contaminated oysters can carry harmful pathogens like Vibrio bacteria or norovirus, both of which can cause severe illness. The implicated oysters were processed by JBR (KR-15-SP), harvested January 6, 2025, and distributed to restaurants. This incident follows earlier outbreaks tied to South Korean oysters. Anyone experiencing symptoms after eating oysters in April should report it to the health district and seek medical care. Proper hygiene and surface disinfection are strongly advised.

05-05-2025