• Vibrio parahaemolyticus
• molluschi bivalvi vivi
• valutazione del rischio

Mollusk samples collected from Sardinia ASLs were analyzed by IZS of Sassari. Samples were oysters (Crassostrea gigas, Ostrea edulis), clams (Tapes philippinarum and decussatus) and mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis and edulis). Samples were analyzed for V. parahaemolyticus by the ISO/TS 21872-1:2007. Strains were tested by PCR for the presence of V. parahaemolyticus species-specific genes (toxR) and to detect the virulence genes (tdh and trh). V. parahaemolyticus is responsible of emerging public health problems. Reg. CE 2073/2005 does not fix specific criteria, however, recommends the application of good hygienic practices. V.parahaemolyticus prevalence is low. However, such results confirm that it is necessary to acquire more knowledge about V. parahaemolyticus in Sardinia marine seawater. It would be appropriate to include this microorganism in the surveillance systems for gastrointestinal diseases and in monitoring programs in mollusk collection areas.