[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Ju Cheol-in] Norovirus has been detected in oysters produced in the waters of Geoje, Tongyeong, and Goseong, Gyeongnam.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 28th that norovirus was confirmed in oysters from some waters of Geoje, Goseong, and Tongyeong, and safety measures were taken to prevent food poisoning.
The waters where norovirus was detected include parts of three areas in Gyeongnam: Geoje, Goseong, and Tongyeong. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries estimated that recent rainfall caused the inflow of terrestrial contaminants.
Accordingly, the Ministry instructed local governments to strengthen inspections and improvements regarding major pollution sources.
Furthermore, oysters produced in waters where norovirus was detected must be labeled as "for cooking only" during distribution until safety is confirmed, and oyster production groups were advised to postpone shipments of raw oysters through consultation.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries plans to cooperate with the National Institute of Fisheries Science, local governments, and the Fisheries Cooperative to monitor the implementation of these measures. Previously, under the "2020-2021 Safe Oyster Supply Plan," the ministry has been monitoring norovirus detection in oyster production waters.
Since norovirus loses infectivity when heated at 85°C or higher for more than one minute, experts urge people to eat food thoroughly cooked to prevent norovirus infection.
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