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Louisiana reporting at least 5 deaths from flesh-eating bacteria in seawater
ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos • • general
Key Points:
- Louisiana has reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections this year, with five fatalities, exceeding the average of seven cases and one death in previous years.
- All cases were linked to wounds exposed to seawater, and all patients had underlying health conditions, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.
- Vibrio bacteria thrive in warm coastal waters, especially from May to October, and infections can occur through open wounds exposed to brackish or salt water or by consuming raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters.
- Vibrio vulnificus can cause severe, life-threatening infections requiring intensive care or limb amputation, with about 20% of infected individuals dying, sometimes within days.
- Health officials urge people to seek immediate medical attention if wounds exposed to seawater show signs of infection and to inform healthcare providers about the water exposure.
