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Vibrio parahaemolyticus

 


oysters

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a naturally occurring bacterium in sea water. Its numbers increase when water temperature rises during the summer months. The bacteria may grow in molluscan shellfish such as clams, oysters and mussels when seawater temperatures are warmer and then, when those shellfish are eaten raw or undercooked,  a foodborne illness may occur. Foodborne illness from V. parahaemolyticus does not occur too often in B.C. The BCCDC has recorded 12 to 39 cases per year in the last decade.
. V. parahaemolyticus bacteria.  Click to enlarge

Facts and Figures

Get an overview about Vibrio parahaemolyticus.  Learn about the causes, treatment and prevention.

More information on shellfish harvesting.

Web Resources

Last Updated: March 15, 2012