What symptom is specific to Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections?

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a pathogenic bacterium primarily associated with the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, particularly shellfish. One of the hallmark symptoms of infections caused by this organism is the presence of watery diarrhea, which can sometimes be bloody. While other gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea may occur, bloody diarrhea is more specific to this type of infection, distinguishing it from other pathogens that typically cause gastrointestinal distress. Therefore, recognizing bloody diarrhea as a symptom linked directly to Vibrio parahaemolyticus can help in understanding and diagnosing cases of foodborne illness stemming from seafood consumption.