Rare meat -eating bacteria kill 4 in Florida: Here you need to know about Vibrio Vulnificus
Florida health officials have confirmed four deaths and many diseases, caused by Vibrio vulnicus, a rare but deadly “meat eater” bacteria found in hot salt water, saltwater and contaminated seafood. Although the infections are abnormal, they can become rapidly life-threatening, especially when bacteria enter open wounds or bloodstream. With the rise in floods due to rising sea temperature and storm, such cases are becoming more frequent along the Gulf coast. However, rare, high deadly rate awareness and initial intervention makes important. By taking preventive steps and identifying the symptoms quickly, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of serious illness from this dangerous sea bacteria.There is a widespread eye here how Vibrio Vulnikus thrives, how it infects humans, symptoms, and how can you protect yourself from this dangerous pathogen.
What is Vibrio Valnicus and where it is found
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally found bacterium found in coastal water, especially in saltwater water and salt environment where mixes with sea water with freshwater. It thrives in warm temperatures and is most prevalent in summer months, especially in Gulf Coast States such as Florida, Louisiana and Texas.Contamination usually occurs in the following ways:
- Through open wounds in exposure to contaminated water.
- By consuming raw or undercurrent seafood, especially shellfish like shellfish.
Outbreaks are often associated with storms and floods, pushing seawater into freshwater areas, which increases the chances of human risk.
Why is it called ‘Meat -eating bacteria ,
Although vibrio vulnicus literally does not “eat” the meat, it can cause a serious condition known as necrotizing fasciaitis – rapid destruction of skin, tissue and muscles near the infection site.Here is how this happens:
- Bacteria cannot enter the intact skin, but may attack the body through slight cuts, scraps or open wounds.
- Once inside, it can destroy the tissue so severely that dissection or emergency surgery may be required.
- The infection can spread rapidly, and in some cases, causes death within 24 to 48 hours.
Symptoms of Vibrio Valnicus infection
Infections may vary in severity. According to CDC, general symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- nausea and vomiting
- Feverish
When bacteria enter through lesions, the signs become more severe:
- Skin swelling, pain and redness
- Ulcer or blisters
- Skin disintegration
- Septimeia (bloodstream infection), which may be fatal in about 50% of cases
People with weak immune system, liver disease, or other chronic conditions have a greater risk of developing complications.
How to prevent Vibrio Valnicus infection
CDC and Florida Health Department recommends these preventive measures:To protect the wound:
- If you have open cuts or wounds, avoid swimming in salt water or salt water.
- If there is a possibility of exposure to contaminated water or seafood, cover the wound with waterproof straps.
- If you are injured in this type of water, get out immediately and disinfect the wound.
For food security:
- Shellfish well cook, especially oyster, clams and muscles.
- Stop cross-polls by keeping raw seafood separate from other foods.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw shellfish.
When to seek medical help
- If a wound shows the symptoms of infection after contact with water or seafood (redness, swelling, pain, or pus).
- If you develop fever, chills or fatigue after eating seafood or swimming in coastal water.
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