I clipped and pasted this from another website.
http://www.liverfoundation.org/db/articles/1055
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria that can cause sever illness or death to at-risk people who eat raw oysters or clams.
From 1989 to 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recorded 282 serious illnesses associated with consumption of raw oysters and clams containing the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria. While illnesses are infrequent, about half (149) have resulted in death.
Where is it found?
Vibrio vulnificus is found naturally in warm coastal waters, such as the Gulf of Mexico, where levels of the bacteria are elevated during the summer months. Vibrio vulnificus is NOT a result of pollution, and can be found in waters approved for oyster and clam harvesting. Vibrio vulnificus does NOT change the appearance, taste, or odor of oysters or clams.
Are you at risk?
You are at risk of serious illness if you eat raw oysters or clams and have any of these health conditions:
Liver disease (from hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholism, or cancer)
Iron overload disease (hemochromatosis)
Diabetes
Cancer (including lymphoma, leukemia, Hodgkin's disease)
Stomach disorders
Or any illness or medical treatment that weakens the body's immune system
Unsure of your risk? Ask your doctor.
Healthy people are not at risk of serious infection.
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