Vibriosis (infection with Vibrio): Symptoms and treatment

Vibriosis is an infection caused by several species of a group of bacteria called Vibrio. People can be infected by eating raw or undercooked seafood, or by exposing an open wound to water contaminated with Vibrio bacteria.

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Symptoms of vibriosis

Several species of Vibrio can cause illness in humans including V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus,and V. alginolyticus. Symptoms vary depending on which species is causing your illness.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Symptoms usually appear 24 hours after exposure, but can range from 4 hours to 4 days. You may experience:

Illness is likely to be mild to moderate and most symptoms end within 1 to 7 days. Some people experience extreme diarrhea that contains blood or mucous.

V. parahaemolyticus can also infect a wound that's exposed to:

Vibrio vulnificus

Symptoms usually appear 12 to 72 hours after exposure. You may experience:

Illness can be mild, but is more often severe with rapid progression requiring intensive care. V. vulnificus often causes septicemia (an infection of the bloodstream) which can be fatal.

V. vulnificus can also infect a wound that's exposed to:

If you become ill

Contact your health care provider if you:

Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration (severe loss of fluids). Drink plenty of fluids.

Diagnosing vibriosis

Vibriosis is diagnosed by a health care provider, who may order a laboratory test to detect Vibrio bacteria in your:

Your health care provider will assess your symptoms, and may ask questions to determine your risk of a Vibrio infection. For example, they might ask about foods you've eaten recently, and whether you've been in contact with salt water, brackish water or raw seafood.

Treating vibriosis

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2022-11-30