Eating Raw Oysters increase Risk of Norovirus Infection And Serve as A Reservoir for Pathogens

Oysters's status as vectors for human norovirus transmission is likely abetted by their presence in coastal waters, which are contaminated by human waste.

A study says that eating raw oysters and shellfish may increase the risk of getting infected by human norovirus that causes stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Oysters not only transmit human norovirus but also serve as a major reservoir for these pathogens, the findings show.

Mosquito Control Pesticide Low Risk to Juvenile Oysters
A NOAA study suggests that four of the most common mosquito pesticides used along the east and Gulf coasts show little risk to juvenile hard clams and oysters.

"More than 80 percent of human norovirus genotypes were detected in oyster samples or oyster-related outbreaks," said author Yongjie Wang, professor at the Shanghai Ocean University in Shanghai.

"The results highlight oysters' important role in the persistence of norovirus in the environment, and its transmission to humans. They demonstrate the need for surveillance of human norovirus in oyster samples," Wang said.

In earlier research, the examiners found that 90 percent of human norovirus sequences in China came from coastal regions.

Oysters Playing a Vital Role in the Health of the Bay
Oysters destined for a sprinkling of lemon juice and a delighted diner are pulled from the majestic Chesapeake Bay, where 20 years ago they had nearly disappeared.

The current research said the same is true all over the world, except in tropical regions.

Oysters's status as vectors for human norovirus transmission is likely abetted by their presence in coastal waters, which are frequently contaminated by human waste, Wang said.

Food Supplement from Beef, Oysters Fights Brain Disorders
Phosphatidylserine - food supplement produced from beef, soy and oysters was found to improve cognition and slow memory

Previous research says noroviruses can persist for weeks in oyster tissues, and commercial depuration fails to expunge them.

Wang advised people who eat oysters and other shellfish to eat them fully cooked.

Oysters Becoming Extinct
A comparative study of oyster reefs in the past and present has been carried out through a widespread survey that revealed that 90 per cent of the reefs have been destroyed.

The findings appeared in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology.

Source-IANS