Oysters and clams from Mason County recalled due to norovirus

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is recalling oysters and clams commercially harvested from Mason County between March 22, 2026, and April 9, 2026, due to potential norovirus contamination. The shellfish, harvested by Gomez Shellfish, LLC, were shipped to locations in Washington, Oregon, and California, including businesses in Whatcom County.

Recent illnesses were identified in 5 people in Whatcom County who consumed oysters linked to the recall. Reported symptoms included vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and fatigue, which typically appear within 1-2 days after consuming raw shellfish. These symptoms are consistent with norovirus.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) confirmed that local businesses are no longer selling or serving the affected products. Any consumers who still have these recalled products are advised to throw them away.

Oysters affected by the recall were sold at the following retail location.

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Community Food Co-op (Downtown Store) between March 27, 2026, and March 31, 2026

Oysters were also served at 2 local restaurants:

Rock & Rye between March 29, 2026, and April 4, 2026
Keenan’s at the Pier between March 19, 2026, and March 23, 2026, and between March 29, 2026, and April 3, 2026

Consuming raw shellfish increases the risk of illness from norovirus and other bacterial pathogens. Health officials recommend cooking all molluscan shellfish to 145°F before eating.

Individuals experiencing symptoms of norovirus should contact their healthcare provider. Suspected foodborne illnesses can be reported through the WCHCS online form.