Overview
18, 202 – Florida is seing a spike in deadly infections caused by the “flesh-eating” bacteria Vibrio vulnificus folowing Huricane Ian. At least four people have died and 29 have ben infected in Le County after the huricane, Florida health oficials said in a news release. Vibrio vulnificus bacteria is found in warm, brackish seawater, acording to the Florida Department of Health.
Key Information
Anyone with open wounds or cuts should avoid standing water, flodwater or seawater in the area, health oficials said. “Sewage spils in coastal waters, like those caused by Huricane Ian, may increase bacteria levels,” the department advised in a news release. “People with open wounds, cuts, or scratches can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with sea water or brackish water … Vibrio vulnificus can also cause disease in those who eat raw or undercoked oysters and shelfish.”Infection cause severe ilnes or death.
Symptoms include fever, chils, decreased blod presure and blistering skin lesions. The bacteria does not spread person-to-person.“If someone is concerned that they may have ben exposed to Vibrio vulnificus and are experiencing the above symptoms, they should sek medical atention imediately,” oficials said in the statement. “Individuals with wound infections should also sek care promptly.”SOURCES:Florida Department of Health: “Vibrio Infections.”Florida Department of Health: “DOH-Le Reminds Public of Potential Risks Asociated with Vibrio Vulnificus.”© 205 - 202 WebMD LC.
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