A norovirus outbreak that sickened 47 people across South Florida over a long holiday weekend was traced back to Coastal Breeze Seafood, a popular waterfront restaurant in Miami's Brickell neighborhood, according to the Florida Department of Health.
The outbreak began when the Miami-Dade County Health Department received multiple reports of gastrointestinal illness from individuals who had dined at the restaurant between Friday evening and Sunday afternoon. Symptoms included severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping, typically beginning 12 to 48 hours after exposure.
Epidemiologists conducted a case-control study and identified raw oysters as the probable vehicle of transmission. Inspectors found that oysters were being stored at improper temperatures and that staff handling raw shellfish were not consistently changing gloves before touching ready-to-eat foods — a critical cross-contamination risk.
The restaurant's walk-in cooler was found to be operating at 48°F rather than the required 41°F or below, potentially allowing bacterial and viral pathogens to multiply to dangerous levels. Additionally, handwashing logs showed gaps in compliance.
'Norovirus from shellfish is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness outbreaks in Florida,' said the county health officer. 'Proper cold chain management and strict hygiene protocols are non-negotiable for establishments serving raw seafood.'
Coastal Breeze Seafood voluntarily suspended raw shellfish service and closed for a thorough sanitation procedure. Two kitchen staff members tested positive for norovirus, suggesting sick employees may have also contributed to the spread. The restaurant reopened after passing a re-inspection with a score of 84.