Clinical Characteristics and Molecular Subtyping of Vibrio vulnificus Illnesses in Israel
Author Information
Author(s): Zaidenstein Ronit, Sadik Chantal, Lerner Larisa, Valinsky Lea, Kopelowitz June, Yishai Ruth, Agmon Vered, Parsons Michele, Bopp Cheryl, Weinberger Miriam
Primary Institution: Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
Hypothesis
What are the changing trends, outcomes, and molecular relatedness of Vibrio vulnificus biotype 3 infections in Israel?
Conclusion
Infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus biotype 3 continue to affect public health in Israel, with a notable mortality rate.
Supporting Evidence
- Most infections were related to handling tilapia or carp.
- Bacteremia and altered immune status were identified as independent risk factors for death.
- The death rate among patients was 7.6%.
- Patients with laboratory-confirmed infections had more severe outcomes.
- V. vulnificus biotype 3 is genetically distinct from other biotypes.
- Regulations were recommended to prevent further infections.
- Most infections occurred during the warm months of the year.
- Patients with underlying diseases had a higher risk of severe outcomes.
Takeaway
This study found that a type of bacteria from fish can make people very sick, especially if they have other health problems.
Methodology
Clinical data were collected from health records and standardized questionnaires were used to assess cases of V. vulnificus infections.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting and diagnosis due to reliance on clinical history and laboratory confirmation.
Limitations
The study may not capture all cases due to reliance on reported infections and laboratory confirmations.
Participant Demographics
The median age of participants was 66 years, with a slight male predominance (58%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.031
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.2–30.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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