Eating Raw Oysters? CDC Issues Urgent Salmonella Warning
A raw oysters salmonella outbreak has led US health authorities to issue a nationwide public health alert, urging people to avoid eating certain raw oysters. So far, at least 64 people in 22 states have been diagnosed with Salmonella infection linked to oysters harvested from Texas waters in late November.
The contaminated oysters were distributed widely across the country before the outbreak was detected, raising concerns about further exposure.
Where the Contaminated Oysters Came From
Health investigations have traced the outbreak to oysters harvested from Galveston Bay. These oysters were supplied to restaurants and seafood retailers in multiple states.
After identifying the source, the Texas Department of State Health Services ordered an immediate recall of oysters from specific harvesting areas. Restaurants have been instructed to stop serving them, and consumers are advised to discard any oysters if the origin is uncertain.
Why Eating Raw Oysters Can Be Dangerous
Raw oysters are widely consumed for their taste and texture, but they can sometimes harbor dangerous bacteria. In the current outbreak linked to raw oysters, the illness has been traced to Salmonella, a bacteria commonly responsible for foodborne infections.
Those who contract Salmonella may suffer from symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can develop within hours or a few days after eating contaminated food. While most healthy adults recover within a week, some cases can become severe and may need hospital treatment.
No Fatalities Reported, but Hospitalizations Confirmed
Health authorities have stated that no deaths have occurred so far. However, several individuals have been hospitalized due to the infection.
Laboratory investigations, including genetic testing, confirmed that the Salmonella strain found in patients matches the strain detected in oysters sourced from the affected region in Texas. This finding strongly links the contaminated oysters to the outbreak.
What You Should Do If You Ate Raw Oysters
Anyone who has recently eaten raw oysters and develops symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately. It is important to inform the doctor about recent shellfish consumption, as this helps with diagnosis and treatment.
Even if you feel well, health officials advise avoiding raw oysters for now, especially if their source cannot be verified.
Cooking Oysters Makes Them Safer
Cooking oysters thoroughly can effectively kill Salmonella and other harmful bacteria. Experts recommend cooking shellfish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
In addition, good kitchen hygiene is essential. Hands, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with raw seafood should be washed properly to prevent cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Salmonella causes about 1.3 million infections every year in the United States, making it one of the leading causes of foodborne illness. This raw oysters salmonella outbreak highlights the ongoing risks associated with eating raw or undercooked seafood.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and may issue further updates as the investigation progresses.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 24 December 2025
- 09:00
