FDA Warns Against Recalled Oysters Linked to Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak

October 19, 2026

FDA RECALL: Federal health officials are warning consumers, restaurants, and retailers across 16 states and Washington, D.C., not to eat, serve, or sell certain raw oysters from Virginia following a Salmonella outbreak that has sickened at least 27 people.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the safety alert after a cluster of Salmonella Telelkebir cases was traced back to oysters harvested from the Little Wicomico River.

• Producer: Little Wicomico Oyster Company (Certification No. VA-1421-SP)
• Harvest Dates: September 18 through October 8, 2026
• Harvest Location: Little Wicomico River or Little Wicomico River, Lower (Virginia)
• Distribution Area: CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, IL, MD, MO, North Carolina, NJ, NV, NY, PA, TX, and VA (may include further distribution)

The Virginia Department of Health temporarily closed the river to harvesting on October 9. The producer has halted operations in the area, recalled the affected batches, and is cooperating with investigators from the FDA, CDC, and state authorities. Oysters from other Virginia growing areas are not affected.

Instructions for Consumers and Businesses

Because Salmonella cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, officials advise taking immediate steps if you hold or recently bought recalled oysters:

1. Check Tags and Labels: Check package tags or ask your retailer/server if the oysters came from Little Wicomico Oyster Company (VA-1421-SP) during the harvest window.
2. Do Not Eat or Serve: Immediately throw the oysters away in a sealed bag or contact your distributor for destruction/return.
3. Clean and Sanitize: Wash and sanitize all surfaces, utensils, containers, and hands that touched the shellfish to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Monitor for Symptoms: Salmonella symptoms—including diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps—typically appear within 12 to 72 hours. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms after eating raw oysters should contact a healthcare provider immediately.

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