Canada finds 67 cases of vibrio parahaemolyticus infection

Canada has been investigating a total of 67 cases of Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada Thursday.

The agency said that 48 cases and 19 cases have been confirmed separately in British Columbia province and Alberta province. Individuals became sick between June 1 and Aug. 7, 2015 and all reported consumption of raw shellfish, primarily oysters.

The agency is collaborating with provincial public health partners, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Health Canada to investigate and determine the source and distribution of the sea food products.

Vibrio is a naturally-occurring bacterium that can be present at high levels in coastal waters during periods of increased water temperatures. Most people come in contact with Vibrio by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters.

People infected with vibrio can experience a wide range of symptoms. Some do not get sick at all, while others feel as though they have a bad case of stomach flu. Few people get seriously ill.

The risk to vibrio parahaemolyticus infection can be avoided if shellfish are cooked before being eaten. People with weakened immune systems, young children, pregnant women and older adults are at increased risk for developing complications if they get sick.