Uncooked or undercooked shellfish and hepatitis A
Content provided by Healthwise
Uncooked or undercooked shellfish and hepatitis A
Eating raw shellfish, especially oysters, may put you at risk for hepatitis A.
Bivalves such as oysters and clams filter large amounts of water when feeding. If shellfish are living in water that has been contaminated with stool containing the hepatitis A virus, the shellfish may carry the virus. People then may get it when they eat the raw or undercooked shellfish.
Raw shellfish also may carry other viruses and bacteria that can make people sick.
Not everyone who eats contaminated raw oysters or other raw shellfish will become sick. But to reduce the chance of getting sick, make sure that shellfish have been cooked thoroughly.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology |
| Last Updated | September 9, 2008 |
| Last updated: | September 09, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
