Widespread outbreaks of clam- and oyster-associated gastroenteritis

A study reports the magnitude, symptoms, and identification of the causative agent of a 1982 epidemic of gastroenteritis associated with consumption of raw shellfish in New York state. This epidemic included 103 reported outbreaks involving 813 and 204 cases related to consumption of clams and oysters, respectively. Symptoms noted included diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting over a 2-4 day period. The identification of Norwalk virus as the causative agent is described, with shellfish from the US northeastern coastal waters being implicated.(wz)