What is a source of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus infection?

• A. Packaged cookies
• B. Raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly raw oysters
• C. Pasteurized milk
• D. Cooked vegetables

Answer: (B)

These infections come from bacteria that live in warm coastal waters and accumulate in shellfish. The main route is consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, which can harbor Vibrio species and lead to illness. Cooking shellfish thoroughly or avoiding raw shellfish reduces the risk. In contrast, pasteurized milk, cooked vegetables, or packaged cookies are not typical sources because pasteurization and cooking kill these bacteria, and cookies don’t involve shellfish.