Flesh-eating Bacteria: What you should know (Video)

The Florida Department of Health released a new video on Thursday, featuring questions and answers about Vibrio vulnificus (or flesh-eating bacteria) with Dr. Carina Blackmore, Deputy State Epidemiologist. To view the video click here: http://youtu.be/oIIBAiXVupQ. To read the Frequently Asked Questions click HERE.

Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that normally lives in warm, brackish seawater. Since it is naturally found in warm marine waters, people with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater. Also, Vibrio vulnificus can cause disease in those who eat raw shellfish. Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare, with an average of 30 people diagnosed with the disease each year in Florida. To date, a total of 27 confirmed cases and 9 deaths related to Vibrio Vulnificus have occurred in Florida in 2013.

Ingestion of Vibrio vulnificus can cause vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Vibrio vulnificus can also cause an infection of the skin when open wounds are exposed to warm seawater; these infections may lead to skin breakdown and ulcers. Healthy individuals typically develop a mild disease; however Vibrio vulnificus infections can be a serious concern for people who have weakened immune systems, particularly those with chronic liver disease. If someone is concerned that they may have been exposed to Vibrio vulnificus and are experiencing the above symptoms they should seek medical attention immediately.

Floridians should thoroughly cook oysters, either by frying, stewing, or roasting to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses in the meat. Consuming raw oysters that have undergone a post-harvest treatment process to eliminate the bacteria can also reduce the risk of illness. Avoiding exposure of open wounds to seawater and estuarine water reduces the risk of wound infections.