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What to know about 'flesh-eating' Vibrio vulnificus bacteria after infections reported in Florida, Louisiana
abcnews.com • • health
Key Points:
- Over two dozen cases of the rare "flesh-eating" bacteria Vibrio vulnificus have been reported this year in Gulf Coast states, with 15 cases in Florida and 10 in Louisiana, resulting in seven deaths.
- Vibrio vulnificus naturally occurs in saltwater and brackish waters, especially during warmer months, and infections can happen through open wounds exposed to water or by consuming raw or undercooked seafood.
- Symptoms range from gastrointestinal issues to severe bloodstream infections and wound infections that may require intensive care or limb amputation, with a mortality rate of about 20%.
- Mild infections typically do not require antibiotics, but severe cases may need antibiotic treatment and surgery, particularly if necrotizing fasciitis develops.
- Prevention includes avoiding raw seafood, protecting open wounds from saltwater exposure by covering them with waterproof bandages, washing hands after handling shellfish, and thoroughly cleaning any wounds exposed to water.
