Vibriosis and Shellfish

Vibrio bacteria live naturally in coastal waters. Some species can cause a disease called vibriosis. Shellfish, particularly oysters, are an important source of these infections. Vibrio bacteria can build up inside shellfish as shellfish filter seawater to extract their food. Vibriosis can result from infection of the gastrointestinal system, skin, or bloodstream. People can get vibriosis from eating raw or undercooked shellfish, mainly raw oysters. The risk of getting infected is highest during the warmer months when there are more Vibrio bacteria in the water. CDC is working with state public health officials and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to investigate clusters of vibriosis, which might indicate an outbreak. This project aims to harmonize ways of counting these illnesses so officials can respond more quickly to outbreaks, helping get seafood that has made people sick removed from the market and close any related oyster beds temporarily to prevent additional illness.

Learn about other foodborne, waterborne, and fungal disease prevention priorities.