Jacksonville Man’s Struggle with Flesh-Eating Bacteria

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A man from Jacksonville, who has been fighting a severe infection caused by flesh-eating bacteria for several weeks, suspects his early discharge from the hospital was influenced by his lack of insurance.

Nate Manor reported that he was released from Ascension St. Vincent’s in Riverside on Monday after an extended hospital stay. His condition stemmed from an infection he believes originated while he was doing yard work.

“I’m in a lot of pain, and it stresses me out because it’s pretty serious,” he shared. “I worry about the risk of additional infections and having to return to the hospital. It’s just a lot to handle.”

Throughout his treatment, Manor was moved between Ascension and UF Health in Gainesville, mainly for specialized care related to skin grafting. He demonstrated to News4JAX where skin was taken from one leg and grafted onto the affected leg.

Manor is convinced that his lack of insurance was a factor in his discharge decision. He claimed, “The nurses and the discharge planner mentioned that explicitly.”

In response, Ascension St. Vincent’s issued a statement asserting their commitment to treating all patients with compassion, regardless of their insurance status.

We strive to provide compassionate care to everyone, regardless of ability to pay. Patients are encouraged to consult our financial counseling team regarding available resources.

Manor feels a sense of relief that he may avoid amputation of his leg, yet anxiety about managing his business remains. “There isn’t really a nursing staff available to help out here,” he mentioned.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists several recommendations on their website to help prevent infections from flesh-eating bacteria:

• Do not eat raw or undercooked oysters or any seafood; cook them properly.
• Ensure raw seafood, its drippings, or juices do not contaminate other foods.
• Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw shellfish.
• If at high risk for infection, consider wearing protective gloves when dealing with raw seafood.
• Avoid salt or brackish water if you have an open wound.
• Use a waterproof bandage to cover any wounds that might come into contact with coastal waters or raw seafood.