CALIFORNIA IN BRIEF : SACRAMENTO : Gulf Coast Oyster Warnings Posted

Beginning today, groceries and restaurants that sell raw Gulf Coast oysters must post signs warning of potential adverse health effects. The action, the first in the nation, was ordered by the state Department of Health Services. “The risk is certainly one we view as serious,” said Kenneth Kizer, state health director. The warnings are intended to alert people with certain health problems related to oysters, which contain the bacteria Vibrio vulnificus, which can cause severe infections and death. People with liver diseases, cancer and other chronic diseases such as diabetes or AIDS are considered susceptible.