State and local health officials are advising consumers to avoid eating raw oysters from Puerto Peñasco, Mexico, better known as Rocky Point, following the identification of 13 cases of hepatitis A associated with raw oyster consumption.

Eleven cases have been identified in Maricopa County, and one each in Pima and Yuma counties. All reported traveling to Rocky Point between March 8 and March 25, and eating raw oysters at several different locations, including oyster farms and street vendors. Mexican health officials are investigating to identify possible sources of the contaminated oysters.
"These cases are a reminder there is a real risk of getting sick from uncooked shellfish – regardless of where it is from," said State Epidemiologist Ken Komatsu. Illnesses associated with eating uncooked oysters are not uncommon and have been reported in numerous states, including California, Florida, Texas, Alabama, and Louisiana.

Illness resulting from hepatitis A infection may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea or abdominal discomfort, which may be followed within a few days by jaundice. Hepatitis A can take from 15 to 50 days to develop, however it usually takes about 30 days. The illness is rarely fatal, and is usually of mild to moderate severity.

Due to a higher risk of complications, anyone with any other form of hepatitis or underlying liver disease and who ate raw oysters in Puerto Peñasco during this time may wish to consult with their health care provider. There is an effective vaccine that virtually eliminates the possibility of getting hepatitis A. The Centers for Disease Control advises people traveling to countries where hepatitis A is common should consider getting immunized against hepatitis A.

Hepatitis A can be contracted anywhere. It is usually spread from person to person by putting something in the mouth that has been contaminated with the stool of a person with hepatitis A. To avoid contracting hepatitis A, always wash your hands after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or before preparing or eating food.

For more information, please log on to www.cdc.gov or contact your local health department (In Maricopa County, 602-747-7500).