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Key Facts

  • ✓ The Hérault prefecture suspended shellfish sales from the Thau Basin for New Year's.
  • ✓ The measure follows the detection of norovirus in the water.
  • ✓ Shellfish harvested before December 19, 2025, are not subject to the restriction.
  • ✓ Shellfish from other production zones are also exempt from the ban.

Quick Summary

The Hérault prefecture has suspended the sale of shellfish harvested from the étang de Thau for the New Year period. This decision follows the detection of norovirus in the water, posing a potential health risk to consumers. The restriction applies specifically to shellfish harvested after December 19, 2025. However, authorities clarified that shellfish harvested before this date, or those sourced from other production zones, are not subject to these restrictions. This temporary ban is intended to prevent the spread of the virus during the holiday festivities.

Health Alert Issued for Thau Basin

The préfecture de l’Hérault has taken decisive action to safeguard public health ahead of the New Year celebrations. Following the identification of norovirus in the waters of the étang de Thau, a temporary ban has been placed on the sale of shellfish harvested from this location. The virus, which can cause gastrointestinal illness, necessitates immediate precautionary measures to protect consumers.

The local authorities are strictly monitoring the situation to ensure compliance with safety standards. The ban highlights the importance of water quality in shellfish farming areas. The restriction is a direct response to the environmental health data collected from the basin.

"Les coquillages récoltés avant le 19 décembre 2025, ou provenant d’autres zones de production, ne sont donc pas soumis à cette mesure de restriction, précise la préfecture de l’Hérault."

— Préfecture de l’Hérault

Scope of the Restriction

The measure specifically targets shellfish harvested after December 19, 2025. Vendors and consumers are advised to verify the origin of their shellfish carefully. The préfecture de l’Hérault has provided specific guidelines regarding which products are affected.

It is important to note that the restriction does not apply to all shellfish products. The authorities have outlined the following exceptions:

  • Shellfish harvested prior to December 19, 2025.
  • Shellfish originating from zones outside the étang de Thau production area.

These exemptions ensure that the market supply is not entirely halted, provided the products meet the safety criteria regarding harvest date and location.

Implications for the New Year

The timing of this suspension is critical, as shellfish are a traditional staple of New Year's Eve celebrations in France. The Hérault region, known for its aquaculture, faces a significant disruption during this peak commercial period. Consumers planning holiday meals must remain vigilant regarding the sourcing of their seafood.

Authorities continue to monitor the étang de Thau for improvements in water quality. The lifting of the suspension will depend on subsequent tests confirming the absence of norovirus. Until then, the ban remains in effect to ensure the safety of the public.