What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Q: What is Vibrio vulnificus?
A: Vibrio vulnificus is a species of pathogenic bacteria of the genus Vibrio that is related to V. cholerae.
Q: Where is Vibrio vulnificus found?
A: Vibrio vulnificus is present in marine environments such as estuaries, brackish ponds, or coastal areas.
Q: What happens when a person is infected with Vibrio vulnificus?
A: Infection with Vibrio vulnificus leads to rapidly expanding cellulitis or sepsis.
Q: How long has Vibrio vulnificus been known to cause disease?
A: Vibrio vulnificus was first isolated as a source of disease in 1976.
Q: What is the function of the capsule of Vibrio vulnificus?
A: The capsule of Vibrio vulnificus, made of polysaccharides, is thought to protect against phagocytosis.
Q: Why are people with liver disease more susceptible to Vibrio vulnificus infection?
A: The observed connection of the infection with liver disease (associated with increased serum iron) might be due to the capability of more virulent strains of Vibrio vulnificus to capture iron bound to transferrin.
Q: How is Vibrio vulnificus transmitted to humans?
A: Vibrio vulnificus can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated seafood, particularly clams or oysters.
