An event meant to celebrate the best of Southern California’s finest dining establishments has turned into a nightmare for dozens of attendees. As many as 80 people have been complaining of severe symptoms such as abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting after attending a food festival organized in honor of the region’s culinary stars.
Foodie’s highly anticipated “101 Best Restaurants” food-tasting festival hosted by the Los Angeles Times, is called into question after an outbreak of norovirus. The ultra-contagious stomach bug was contracted by several who joined in the festivities, showcasing the best in dining, that for many was anything but a celebration.
Unpredicted Health Crisis Hits
These included a guest who had gone with lots of expectations but left fighting for his life. He complained of being bloated just hours after consuming fresh oysters from one of the world-class restaurants featured at the event. The symptoms worsened by the following day, including excruciating abdominal pain, chills, among other debilitating effects.
An investigation launched by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health identified at least 80 cases linked to the outbreak. Specialists say norovirus can cause anything from mild discomfort to severe gastrointestinal distress.
Investigation into the Source of Outbreak
The suspected source of the illness appears to be oysters served at the festival. Health officials said the oysters were from Canadian farms located near Vancouver, British Columbia. While event organizers followed food safety guidelines, the nature of norovirus complicates detection.
“The virus does not affect the appearance, smell, or taste of the shellfish,” health officials said, making it virtually undetectable through routine inspections.
A statewide advisory issued by the California Department of Public Health in the wake of the festival warned that Canadian shellfish may be contaminated and that consumers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming raw shellfish.
What Attendees Need to Know
Health experts recommend that people who attended the event and have symptoms should seek medical care. The norovirus infection usually resolves in 12 to 48 hours, but severe cases can lead to dehydration and other complications.
While the outbreak put a damper on the festival, it’s a reminder about the importance of rigorous food safety practices and the potential risks associated with raw seafood. As investigations continue, the affected attendees are left to recover from an experience they never anticipated.
