Noncholera Vibrio species causing enteritis

Enteritis caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus and other noncholera vibrios occasionally occurs following ingestion of contaminated shellfish, including oysters harvested in AustraliaHedges, 2022. Enteritis caused by noncholera Vibrio species is usually self-limiting. Rehydration is the mainstay of therapy.

For patients with severe diarrhoea or those with symptoms not improving after 2 weeks, useElmahdi, 2016:

doxycycline orally, 12-hourly for 5 days¹ ² doxycycline doxycycline doxycycline

adult: 100 mg

child less than 21 kg: 2.2 mg/kg

child 21 kg to less than 26 kg: 50 mg

child 26 kg to 35 kg: 75 mg

child more than 35 kg: 100 mg.

Extraintestinal disease, including bacteraemia, requires a longer duration of therapy; seek expert advice.

Ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, and trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole have also been used successfully for treatment.

¹ Doxycycline use is limited in children because an oral liquid formulation is not marketed in Australia but is available via the Special Access Scheme. For formulation options for children or people with swallowing difficulties, see Don’t Rush to Crush, which is available for purchase from the Advanced Pharmacy Australia website or through a subscription to eMIMSplus.Return

² When used short term (eg less than 21 days), doxycycline has not been associated with tooth discolouration, enamel hypoplasia or bone deposition so can be used in children of all ages.Return