Vibrio symptoms can include gastrointestinal problems, such as watery diarrhea and abdominal cramps; or skin infections, such as sores that become red, swollen, painful or infected. These symptoms usually occur 12 to 72 hours after exposure to contaminated seawater, but they can begin earlier.
Gastrointestinal vibriosis is most common and is caused by eating contaminated raw shellfish, especially oysters. Most people who get this type of vibriosis will recover within 3 days without medical treatment.
Some cases of this illness can be severe and life-threatening, especially in people with weakened immune systems or other health conditions. This type of infection can cause fever and chills, blood-tinged blistering skin lesions, decreased blood pressure, confusion and other symptoms.
Wound infections can also be serious, causing sores that become painful or red and swollen. These wounds may need to be treated with antibiotics or surgery.
These infections are more common among people who are aging or who have chronic liver disease, diabetes, iron disorders, kidney or heart disease, cancer, or immune deficiencies. They are also more likely in those who have open wounds that have been exposed to saltwater or brackish water, such as in the shower.
Other risk factors for this illness include a weakened immune system, having kidney or liver transplants or other serious medical conditions, a history of cancer, and long-term use of antacid medications.
A doctor can test your stool, blood or a wound to check for this infection. This is most important if you have a recent episode of watery diarrhea and are thinking about eating seafood, particularly raw or undercooked shellfish.
Drink plenty of fluids until you feel better to prevent dehydration, which can make vibriosis worse. Choose clear liquids such as water, juices, or sports drinks to replace the fluids you lose through diarrhea.
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, as they can increase your chances of becoming dehydrated or getting sick. If you must drink alcohol, do so in small amounts.
Stay away from crabbing in the ocean, as this activity can expose you to Vibrio vulnificus bacteria. It’s also not safe to go swimming in the ocean when you have an open wound or break in your skin, as the bacteria could enter the body through the wound.
In some cases, this bacterium can cause bloodstream infections and blistering skin lesions in people with certain conditions or weakened immune systems. These infections can be fatal if left untreated.
About 80% of all people who get this infection are infected during the months when water temperatures are warmer (May to October). This includes people who have eaten contaminated raw shellfish or exposed their open wounds to seawater.
Some species of the bacterium can also cause bloodstream infections, which can be life-threatening and even result in death. This is most common in people who are aging or who have chronic underlying illnesses, such as liver diseases, diabetes, kidney disease, iron disorders, cancer or long-term use of antacids.
Symptoms of this infection can range from mild to severe and life-threatening, with some requiring intensive care or limb amputation.
