How to Prevent Vibrio Infections

Vibrio infections are caused by bacterium in the Vibrio genus, usually the non-cholera groups because the cholera groups are simply referred to as cholera. Vibrio vulnificus is the most dangerous of the non-cholera species of Vibrio, requiring salt water. Shellfish are especially prone to contamination. Vibrio infections have been increasing in the United States, probably because of the increasing warmth and salinity of bays in the Gulf of Mexico. Read on to learn how to prevent vibrio infections.

Instructions

• 1

  Use caution while swimming in the oceans of the southeastern United States during the summer, especially the Gulf of Mexico. Avoid swimming with open wounds. Avoid sexual intercourse--this is particularly important for women--in brackish water.

• 2

  Cook seafood thoroughly. Raw or undercooked seafood is usually the most likely cause of Vibrio infections and cannot be detected by smell or taste. This is especially important for individuals at high risk for Vibrio infections such as people with alcoholism, cancers, cirrhosis or organ transplants.

• 3

  Cook shellfish about nine minutes or until plump. Boil crab or shrimp until the shells turn pink and the meat is cooked in the middle. Fish should be cooked until the thickest part is opaque.

• 4

  Seek medical attention promptly if severe pain in the lower extremities develops. Vibrio infections also are frequently accompanied by abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and nausea.

• 5

  Report Vibrio infections to the Centers for Disease Control and regional offices of the Federal Drug Administration. This will allow tracking and control of Vibrio outbreaks.