Flesh-Eating Bacteria on the Rise in Coastal US

Health officials are warning of an increase in cases of flesh-eating bacteria along the US coast. The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, is found in warm, saltwater environments and can cause serious illness or death, especially in people with underlying health conditions.

In recent weeks, there have been several cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection reported in coastal areas of New York, Connecticut, and Florida. In some cases, the infections have been fatal.

Vibrio vulnificus can enter the body through open wounds or through the digestive tract, if consumed in raw or undercooked seafood. The bacteria can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In severe cases, the bacteria can lead to sepsis, organ failure, and death.

People who are most at risk for Vibrio vulnificus infection include:

• People with open wounds: If you have an open wound, it is important to protect it from saltwater exposure.
• People who consume raw or undercooked seafood: Cook seafood thoroughly before eating it.
• People with underlying health conditions: People with liver disease, diabetes, or other chronic conditions are more likely to develop severe infections from Vibrio vulnificus.

If you think you may have been exposed to Vibrio vulnificus, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing serious complications.

Additional Information

• Vibrio vulnificus is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness or death in people who are exposed to it.
• The bacteria is found in warm, saltwater environments, such as the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
• People can become infected with Vibrio vulnificus through open wounds or by eating raw or undercooked seafood.
• Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.
• In severe cases, Vibrio vulnificus infection can lead to sepsis, organ failure, and death.
• People who are most at risk for Vibrio vulnificus infection include those with open wounds, those who eat raw or undercooked seafood, and those with underlying health conditions.
• There is no vaccine to prevent Vibrio vulnificus infection.
• Treatment for Vibrio vulnificus infection is with antibiotics.
• Early diagnosis and treatment is important for preventing serious complications from Vibrio vulnificus infection.