Vibrio in the United States: Vibrio cholerae and other pathogenic vibrios

Abstract

Vibrio cholerae and its relatives are ubiquitous in the surface waters of the world. Endemic foci of V. cholerae, V. parahemolyticus, and V. vulnificus (among other Vibrio species) in the waters of the United States have led to a constant, although low, background of indigenous infections with these organisms. The experience with such infections following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita served as a reminder that these organisms can cause rapidly fatal infections, making timely identification paramount. Since they require special media for their isolation from stool and often require confirmatory testing, it is important for laboratory professionals to be aware of the challenges presented by these organisms. This review discusses the presence of V. cholerae and other Vibrio species in the United States, the types of infections caused by vibrios, and key tests needed to differentiate them from other genera of enteric bacteria and to identify the species.