Editor’s note: Updated on 1/8/25 to include new information from the Washington State Department of Health.

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – All shellfish harvesting near Drayton Harbor is closed for the next several weeks.

The Washington State Department of Health issued an emergency closure on Tuesday, Jan. 7, for the harvest areas at Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo up to the Canadian border.

The area isn’t expected to reopen until Jan. 27.

The DOH says the closure was prompted by several people who reported falling ill with Norovirus-like symptoms after eating raw oysters harvested in the area on Dec. 28 and Dec. 30.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services warns residents that Norovirus spreads fast and can cause stomach cramps, fevers and vomiting. People are advised to wash their hands often, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and make sure to cook shellfish to at least 145 degrees.

Recreational butter and varnish clam harvesting remains closed at Bellingham Bay south to the Skagit County line and Gooseberry Point north to the Canadian border.

Harvesters are reminded to “know before they dig” and check the DOH’s website for the latest information on closures.