Does eating raw oysters put Hongkongers at risk of norovirus?

Following a wave of poisoning cases linked to raw oysters, the SCMP looks into the risks of consuming the bivalve shellfish and how to avoid illness1Published: 10:00am, 11 Feb 2026Updated: 11:07am, 11 Feb 2026Norovirus has fallen under the spotlight in Hong Kong following a series of food poisoning cases linked to raw oysters in eateries since January, with the latest incident added to the list taking place at the five-star Mandarin Oriental hotel.Between January 18 and Monday, the Centre for Health Protection recorded 37 food poisoning cases affecting 115 people. Of these, 33 cases – involving 101 individuals – were linked to Norovirus.Epidemiological findings showed that all those affected by Norovirus had eaten raw oysters during the incubation period. The centre has advised the public to avoid eating raw seafood.Authorities also ordered that the supply of raw oysters from two local companies and a South Korean one be suspended after the seafood was linked to 22 cases of suspected food poisoning.The South China Morning Post looks into the virus, debunks myths related to consuming oysters and asks experts how best to protect oneself against it. Hong Kong’s Mandarin Oriental hotel linked to latest food poisoning casesHong Kong’s Mandarin Oriental hotel linked to latest food poisoning cases1. What is Norovirus, and should I be worried about it?