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Louisiana health officials warn beachgoers of flesh-eating bacteria risk
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Louisiana has reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections this year, with five deaths, exceeding the decade average of seven cases and one death during the same period.
- Vibrio vulnificus, a deadly flesh-eating bacteria thriving in Gulf Coast brackish and saltwater, infects people primarily through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.
- Florida has seen an increase in cases this year, with 14 infections and two deaths so far, and cases tend to rise following tropical storms and hurricanes.
- Vulnerable populations include the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, liver disease, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses, with climate change contributing to the bacteria’s northward spread and rising incidence.
- Health officials advise immediate medical care for wounds exposed to coastal waters that show signs of infection, thorough washing of cuts after water exposure, and caution when handling or consuming raw shellfish, especially oysters.
