Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a germ that can infect the bowel, causing gastroenteritis. Common symptoms can include diarrhoea (runny poo), fever and nausea (feeling sick).
People from New Zealand are most likely to catch vibrio parahaemolyticus from consuming raw seafood that has been contaminated or not stored at the proper temperature.
If you are concerned about vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis call Healthline on 0800 611 116 or see your doctor or practice nurse.
In New Zealand the most common causes of vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis are:
It is very rarely passed from person to person directly.
Symptoms of vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis can include:
Symptoms usually start one to two days after you are infected, but can occur any time up to three days later. They tend to last for one to seven days.
If you have symptoms of vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis contact your doctor, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116. If your doctor thinks you have vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis they will ask for a sample of your faeces for testing.
You will need to drink plenty of water so you do not become dehydrated, and you will require lots of rest to recover.
If you have vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis you will need to stay home from work, school or day care to avoid passing it on. You can return after you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours (two days). You will also be provided with advice on other ways to reduce the risk to others.
Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis is a notifiable disease. This means that health professionals or laboratories will inform us when someone has it. This allows us to give advice about how to stop it spreading, and check that other people who have been in close contact with the person with the illness haven’t also been infected.
Last updated 25.3.2024