The Louisiana Department of Health closed an oyster harvesting area after 15 people reported norovirus-like illnesses.

Fifteen people became ill with norovirus-like illness after eating the Louisiana oysters harvested from Area 3 at several New Orleans restaurants between January 15 and January 31. The illnesses were not life-threatening, but two people were hospitalized and have been discharged.

The outbreak was reported late last month in southwest Alabama and left 11 people ill, including three who sought emergency room treatment.