Flesh-eating bacteria kill at least 7 along Gulf Coast. How to protect yourself.
Summary
A dangerous bacteria called vibrio vulnificus has caused at least seven deaths this year along the U.S. Gulf Coast. The bacteria live in warm coastal waters and can infect people through open wounds or by eating raw shellfish, with serious illness risk higher for those with certain health problems.Key Facts
- Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm seawater and can infect people through cuts or raw shellfish.
- Seven people have died from the bacteria this year: two in Florida and five in Louisiana.
- About 20% of people infected with this bacteria die, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Cases are spreading north, with infections confirmed in Maryland and bacteria detected as far north as New York.
- People with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, blood disorders, or weakened immune systems have a higher risk of severe infection.
- Open wounds should not be exposed to brackish water, which is a mix of salt and fresh water found where rivers meet the ocean.
- Symptoms of infection include fever, pain, redness, swelling, chills, nausea, and vomiting.
- Immediate cleaning of wounds exposed to infected water is important to prevent infection.
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