Vibrio
Vibrio Fact Sheet (PDF
80 KB)
Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus
are bacteria that cause gastrointestinal illness and wound infections in
humans. Rarely, serious bloodstream infection can also occur. These bacteria
require salt to survive, and naturally inhabit coastal waters in the United
States and Canada.
V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus bacteria can contaminate seafood,
especially shellfish, such as clams and oysters. During the summer months
when the ocean waters are warmer, these bacteria are present in higher
concentrations. As a result, human infections are predominantly seasonal, and
approximately 78% occur between May and October. |
Foodborne Illness Alert
This disease is a
foodborne illness. |
