AIDS Treatment News #229, August 18, 1995
The FDA has issued a warning that persons with HIV, or with
liver disease, or with certain other medical conditions,
should avoid eating raw oysters because of the risk of
infection with the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus. The risk is
especially great in oysters from the Gulf of Mexico,
especially during warm months, April to October. Forty
percent of infections with Vibrio vulnificus are fatal,
often within two days. This bacterium is not a threat to most
healthy people.
Because Vibrio vulnificus occurs naturally, not as a result
of pollution, eating oysters from reputable sources does not
provide protection. Proper cooking completely kills the
bacteria and eliminates the risk.
For more information, or copies of a brochure, call the FDA
Seafood Hotline, 800/FDA-4010.