As the heat increases and crowds gather at the Gulf Coast for its warm, inviting waters, health officials are raising alarms about a “flesh-eating” bacteria that has resulted in at least eight fatalities this summer.
The bacterium, Vibrio vulnificus, has gained its unsettling nickname due to its capacity to inflict infections that harm or “eat away” at skin and tissue. Louisiana, in particular, is witnessing an unusually high rate of infections this year.
“With rising water temperatures and extreme weather conditions—like heat waves, flooding, and severe storms—individuals at a greater risk for V. vulnificus infections, such as those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing conditions like liver disease, diabetes, or kidney failure, should be extra cautious during any coastal water activities,” cautioned a report from the Louisiana Department of Health, issued on July 30.
While there’s been a notable increase in cases recently, instances of Vibrio vulnificus infections remain infrequent overall. Nevertheless, experts suggest that those in coastal regions should be vigilant as summer draws to a close. Here’s some key information to consider.
Where are flesh-eating bacteria cases in the US? How common are they?
Louisiana has seen the highest number of Vibrio vulnificus infections in ten years, with 17 reported cases and hospitalizations, along with four deaths as of July 30. By contrast, the previous decade averaged only seven cases and one death in that time frame.
Florida has similarly reported four deaths linked to Vibrio vulnificus infections as of July 24. The state’s total case count stands at 13 so far, which doesn’t seem abnormal for this time of year, according to health data from Florida.
On average, around 150 to 200 cases occur yearly, predominantly in Gulf Coast states, based on CDC data.
USA TODAY has attempted to contact health departments in other coastal states to inquire about any potential cases.
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that leads to a severe infection termed vibriosis. Different Vibrio strains result in various infections, with Vibrio vulnificus representing the “most serious forms of vibriosis,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.
This potentially lethal infection can result in rapid tissue damage, blistering, low blood pressure, fever, organ impairment, sepsis, and even death.
Vibrio vulnificus is often called “flesh-eating” because it can result in necrotizing fasciitis, an aggressive bacterial infection that damages muscle and skin tissue, leading to the death of flesh surrounding injuries, as noted by the CDC. Although it’s possible, this bacterium isn’t typically seen as the primary cause of necrotizing fasciitis in the U.S.
Though infections and consequent issues are rare, they can be fatal. Without treatment, death can happen within a matter of days.
How does ‘flesh-eating’ bacteria enter the body?
Vibrio vulnificus thrives in saltwater and prefers warm, brackish environments where rivers meet seawater, according to the CDC.
Most infections happen when tainted water is ingested or when it enters an open wound, like cuts or scrapes. It can penetrate broken skin but not intact skin. Additionally, consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, can also introduce the bacteria into the body. In fact, raw oysters and exposure to seawater are the primary sources of Vibrio outbreaks noted by the CDC.
Once it enters the body, it can spread to the bloodstream and organs quite rapidly, typically within hours.
Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection
Symptoms of a Vibrio vulnificus infection usually appear swiftly, often within 24 hours of exposure, according to the CDC and Cleveland Clinic.
Common symptoms include:
- A rapidly spreading, red, warm, or swollen skin patch that causes pain
- Fluid-filled blisters and changes in skin color
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Low blood pressure (often signaled by weakness, dizziness, exhaustion, and fainting)
- Confusion or altered mental state
How to protect yourself against Vibrio vulnificus
When eating seafood, the CDC suggests:
- Cooking seafood, including oysters, before consumption.
- Thoroughly cleaning surfaces that come into contact with raw seafood.
- Washing hands thoroughly after handling raw seafood. Those at higher risk should consider wearing gloves.
When swimming, it’s advisable to:
- Steer clear of saltwater or brackish water if you have any open wounds, which includes fresh tattoos, recent surgical sites, or even minor cuts.
- Cover open wounds when in proximity to coastal waters or raw seafood, even if you don’t think you’ll be in direct contact; remember, flooding from storms could expose you.
- Wash any open skin area with soap and water immediately after coming into contact with coastal water or raw seafood.
- If you are at an increased risk, such as having a weakened immune system or conditions like liver disease, diabetes, or kidney failure, consider wearing protective gear when near coastal waters.
