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Norovirus outbreak triggers shellfish closure north of Tofino

CBC News | Posted: December 16, 2016 2:58 PM | Last Updated: December 16, 2016

'We are reassured that it is unlikely any contaminated oysters are currently available in distribution'

Image | Washington Oysters Pesticide

Caption: Island Health says norovirus is likely to blame after more than 100 people who ate raw oysters in Tofino earlier this month fell ill. (Elaine Thompson/Associated Press)

Part of Clayoqout Sound has been closed for shellfish harvesting after more than 100 people got sick after eating raw oysters at a festival in Tofino last month.
A closure notice was posted(external link) for shellfish harvesting in Lemmens Inlet after norovirus was detected in both humans and oysters.
Island Health medical health officer Dr. Paul Hasselback said the investigation is ongoing and there may be further action.
"This is not a common event and at this point in time, we have not been able to determine why the oysters have become contaminated," he said.
"We are reassured that it is unlikely any contaminated oysters are currently available in distribution."

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