Topic:	Digestive Diseases (DD)
Title:	Vibrio vulnificus Fact Sheet for Health Care Providers.
Author:	n/a
Source:	Cedar Grove, NJ: American Liver Foundation. 2001. [2 p.].
Availability:	Available from American Liver Foundation. Information and Distribution Center, 1425 Pompton Avenue, Suite 3, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009-1000. (800) GO-LIVER, ext. 234 or (888) 4HEP-ABC. Fax (973) 256-3214. E-mail: webmail@liverfoundation.org. Website: www.liverfoundation.org. PRICE: $0.50 for single copy; bulk orders available; plus shipping and handling.
Abstract:	Every year, millions of Americans consume raw molluscan shellfish, especially oysters and clams. For some people, eating these shellfish raw or undercooked can cause serious illness or death from Vibrio vulnificus. V. vulnificus is a gram-negative bacterium and is considered the most lethal of the vibrios bacteria inhabiting brackish and salt water. This bacterium is not the result of bacteriological or chemical pollution of marine waters, but occurs naturally in warm, coast areas. This fact sheet provides health care workers with basic information about V. vulnificus. Topics include persons at high risk, how infection occurs, the resulting illness (primary septicemia, gastroenteritis, wound infection), diagnostic considerations, treatment (notably prompt antimicrobial therapy), the long term sequelae of V. vulnificus infection, how to reduce the risk of infection, and prevention recommendations. The fact sheet concludes with the contact information for the American Liver Foundation, a nonprofit, national voluntary health organization (www.liverfoundation.org).
Format:	Factsheet
Language:	English.
Major Keywords:	Digestive System Diseases. Gastrointestinal Diseases. Bacterial Infections. Foodborne Illness. Symptoms. Diagnosis. Patient Care Management. Infection. Risk Factors.
Minor Keywords:	Food Poisoning. Bacteria. Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhea. Complications. Prevention. Gastroenteritis.
Publication Number:	DDBR09540
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