Vibrio vulnificus is typically transmitted via

• A. Direct person-to-person contact
• B. Inhalation of aerosols
• C. Ingestion of contaminated water or seafood
• D. Insect-borne transmission

Answer: (C)

Vibrio vulnificus is a marine bacterium found in warm coastal waters and is most commonly acquired when people eat contaminated seafood, especially raw or undercooked shellfish like oysters, or drink contaminated water. This route brings the organism into the gastrointestinal tract, where it can cause gastroenteritis and, in susceptible individuals (such as those with liver disease or iron overload), severe septicemia. While wound infections can occur if an open skin wound is exposed to seawater, the typical transmission pathway is ingestion of contaminated water or seafood. The other options—direct person-to-person contact, inhalation of aerosols, and insect-borne transmission—are not characteristic routes for this organism.