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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Development of a More Sensitive and Specific Chromogenic Agar Medium for the Detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Other Vibrio Species
Published on: November 8, 2016
[Acute Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis in Dakar]
M Soumaré1, M Seydi, E Gbabangai
1Clinique des maladies infectieuses, CHU de Fann, université Cheikh-Anta-Diop-de-Dakar, BP 5035, Dakar, Sénégal. soumarem@refer.sn
Vibrio parahaemolyticus caused 8.7% of bacterial gastroenteritis during Senegal's 2004-2005 cholera outbreak. Most cases were foodborne and family-transmitted, with patients recovering quickly after rehydration and doxycycline treatment.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Senegal experienced a cholera outbreak in 2004-2005.
- Gastroenteritis is a significant public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiological, clinical, and bacteriological features of Vibrio parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis.
- To understand the role of V. parahaemolyticus during a cholera outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of data from Dakar Fann Hospital (October 2004 - December 2005).
- Diagnosis of V. parahaemolyticus via stool culture.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Thirty-five cases of V. parahaemolyticus gastroenteritis were identified (8.7% of bacterial gastroenteritis).
- Median age was 26 years, with a M/F ratio of 1.5; most cases originated from Dakar.
- Foodborne and intrafamilial transmission were suspected; common symptoms included diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
- All isolates were susceptible to common antibiotics; treatment with rehydration and doxycycline resulted in favorable outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Vibrio parahaemolyticus was a notable cause of gastroenteritis during the 2004-2005 cholera outbreak in Senegal.
- Prompt treatment with rehydration and doxycycline led to full recovery.
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Bacterial Gastroenteritis
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