Louisiana is seeing an increase in the number of people infected with Vibrio vulnificus, commonly called flesh-eating bacteria. State epidemiologist, Theresa Sokol says typically, at this time of year, we see less than ten cases but so far this year, 20 people have been hospitalized. She says Vibrio thrives in warm salt and brackish waters.
“Increasing water temperatures and sometimes extreme weather events can result in an increased number of Vibrio infections,” Sokol said.
Not all the infections came from Louisiana waters. Sokol says use caution in all of the warm Gulf waters.
Sokol says vibrio infections are serious. They can lead to amputations or are sometimes fatal. She says you can become infected by eating raw seafood from exposed waters, but most people infected were exposed through open wounds. She says if you have a wound, stay out of brackish and salt waters.
“Cover the wound with a water-proof bandage if there’s a possibility that it’s going to come into contact with the salted brackish water or raw seafood,” Sokol advised.
If efforts to avoid exposure fail, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
Sokol says it’s important to pay attention to symptoms of skin infections like redness, swelling, blisters, and fever and act quickly if you experience them.
“Tell your medical provider immediately, and especially let them know that that skin has come into contact with the salted brackish water or the raw seafood,” Sokol said.
