Browse by author
Lookup NU author(s): Kristof Gizynski
Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.
Norovirus is the principal agent of bivalve shellfish-associated gastroenteric illness worldwide. Numerous studies using PCR have demonstrated norovirus contamination in a significant proportion of both oyster and other bivalve shellfish production areas and ready-to-eat products. By comparison. the number of epidemiologically confirmed shellfish-associated outbreaks is relatively low. This study attempts to compare norovirus RNA detection in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) by quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and human health risk. Self-reported customer complaints of illness in a restaurant setting (screened for credible norovirus symptoms) were compared with presence and levels of norovirus as determined by realtime RT-PCR for the batch of oysters consumed. No illness was reported for batches consistently negative for norovirus by realtime RT-PCR. However, norovirus was detected in some batches for which no illness was reported. Overall presence or absence of norovirus showed a significant association with illness complaints. In addition. the batch with the highest norovirus RNA levels also resulted in the highest rate of reported illness, suggesting a linkage between virus RNA levels and health risks. This study suggests that detection of high levels of norovirus RNA in oysters is indicative of a significantly elevated health risk. However, illness may not necessarily be reported after detection of norovirus RNA at low levels. Copyright ©, International Association for Food Protection.
Author(s): Lowther J, Avant J, Gizynski K, Rangdale R, Lees D
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Journal of Food Protection
Year: 2010
Volume: 73
Issue: 2
Pages: 305-311
Print publication date: 01/02/2010
ISSN (print): 0362-028X
ISSN (electronic):
Publisher: International Association for Food Protection
