Abstract
Serological analysis of O and K antigens was performed on 343 strains of V. parahaemolyticus [a known cause of food-borne disease] isolated from clinical and environmental sources in Toga [West Africa]. Only 2 strains were not typable by the available O antisera. K untypable strains were found in 4.8% of isolates from gastroenteritis patients, in 11% from healthy carriers, and in 47% and 46% of isolates, respectively, from water and fish samples. Thirteen serotypes identified in Togo are not considered in the Japanese antigenic scheme. The suitabiltiy of the Japanese typing scheme for geographic areas outside of Japan is discussed and its extension is suggested.