The Louisiana Department of Health closed an oyster harvesting area after 15 people reported norovirus-like illnesses.

The outbreak was reported late last month in southwest Alabama and left 11 people ill, including three who sought emergency room treatment.

Fifteen people became ill with norovirus-like illness after eating the Louisiana oysters harvested from Area 3 at several New Orleans restaurants between January 15 and January 31. The illnesses were not life-threatening, but two people were hospitalized and have been discharged.