Health Alert: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters – 15 States Affected
Updated: October 19, 2026
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Public Health Advisory
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state and local public health officials, is currently investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Telelkebir infections associated with raw oysters harvested by Little Wicomico Oyster Company from the Little Wicomico River area in Virginia.
Important Notice:
Do not consume, sell, or serve the recalled oysters.
Contaminated oysters can lead to Salmonella infections, which may result in severe illness.
Outbreak Overview
Total Cases: 27 reported cases across 15 states.
Hospitalizations: 5 hospitalizations among 21 individuals with hospitalization data available
Fatalities: No deaths reported
Illness Onset: Reported illnesses occurred between May 29 and September 14, 2026.
Note: The actual number of illnesses may be higher, as some individuals recover without seeking medical care or testing.
Recommended Actions
For Consumers:
- Refrain from consuming the recalled oysters.
- Review the recall and outbreak information for specifics regarding affected products.
For Restaurants and Food Businesses:
- Do not sell or serve the recalled oysters.
- Review your inventory and consult suppliers if you are uncertain about the status of your oysters.
For Individuals in Possession of Recalled Oysters:
- Do not consume them.
- Follow official public health guidance for safe disposal or return.
For Those Who Recently Consumed Raw Oysters:
- Monitor for symptoms of Salmonella infection and seek medical advice if you become ill.
Symptoms to Monitor
Salmonella infection may present with the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea or vomiting in certain cases
Symptoms typically manifest between 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and generally persist for 4 to 7 days. Individuals such as young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems may experience more severe illnesses. It is advisable to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, if there are signs of dehydration, or if there are concerns regarding the illness.
The Affected States Are:
The Salmonella outbreak associated with raw oysters has impacted the following 15 states and the District of Columbia: California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia and may have been distributed elsewhere.
Preventive Measures
- Refrain from consuming raw or undercooked oysters and other shellfish.
- Ensure shellfish are thoroughly cooked before consumption.
- Prevent cross-contamination between raw seafood and ready-to-eat foods.
- Wash hands and sanitize food preparation surfaces after handling raw seafood.
Investigation Update
Investigations have revealed that 10 out of 13 individuals interviewed reported consuming raw oysters prior to falling ill. Traceback investigations have identified oysters from the Little Wicomico River harvest area as a common source among seven affected individuals. A sample from this harvest area tested positive for Salmonella; further genetic testing is underway to confirm if it matches the outbreak strain.
Please disseminate this alert to safeguard your family, customers, and community.