Five people in Tampa Bay are killed by flesh-eating bacteria as officials warn locals NOT to enter sea with any cuts or grazes on their skin
Five people in Tampa Bay are killed by flesh-eating bacteria as officials warn locals NOT to go into the sea with cuts or abrasions on their skin
- There have been 26 infections of vibrio vulnificus reported in Florida so far this year and it is known to lurk in brackish seawater as it needs salt to live
- About one in five people will die within a day or two of getting sick if they contract the bacteria
- Two people died in Hillsborough County and one person each in Pasco, Polk and Sarasota
Flesh-eating bacteria have killed five people in Tampa Bay and officials have warned locals not to go into the sea with cuts or abrasions on their skin.
So far this year, 26 vibrio vulnificus infections have been reported in Florida and it is known to be lurking brackish sea water because it needs salt to live.
About one in five people will die within a day or two of getting sick if they contract the bacteria.
While infection is rare, health officials are urging people with open wounds to stay out of the water to reduce any risk.
Two people died in Hillsborough County and one person each in Pasco, Polk and Sarasota.
Flesh-eating bacteria have killed five people in Tampa Bay and officials have warned locals not to go into the sea with cuts or abrasions on their skin
There have been 26 infections of vibrio vulnificus reported in Florida so far this year and it is known to lurk in brackish seawater as it needs salt to live
Beachgoers can be exposed to the dangerous bacteria through direct contact with the mixture of fresh and sea water.
‘Water and wounds don’t mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes,” reads a Florida health alert.
It asked those who are immunocompromised to wear proper foot protection to prevent cuts and injuries caused by stones and shells on the beach.
Vibrio vulnificus infections can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a serious infection in which the flesh around an open wound dies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Although this can also be caused by different types of bacteria.
The flesh-eating bacteria can cause an infection of the skin and cause it to break down or cause painful sores.
It can be more serious for people with weakened immune systems.
The bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause serious life-threatening symptoms, including decreased blood pressure, fever, chills, and blistering of the skin.
Vibrio vulnificus can also be contracted from eating raw or undercooked shellfish and oysters.
Beachgoers can be exposed to the dangerous bacteria through direct contact with the mixture of fresh and sea water
Dr. Eric Shamas, an emergency medicine physician at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, said people living in Florida should be aware of the flesh-eating bacteria
It cannot be passed between people, but people with symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention.
Dr. Eric Shamas, an emergency room doctor at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg, told the local news channel WFLA: ‘Because we live in Florida and are near the marine environment, we have to be aware of what it is.
“If you have a skin break and you’re in a marine environment, you’re theoretically at risk.
“It’s very important to keep in mind that these serious infections are very rare.”
He added: “If you have any wounds, maybe stay out of the water. If you get a cut in the water, wash it out very thoroughly with soap and water. Monitor your symptoms and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.”
Last year there were a total of 74 cases and 17 deaths from Vibrio vulnificus infection.
But these numbers were inflated because Hurricane Ian spilled sewage into the ocean, increasing the number of bacteria.
The New York State Health Department last week issued guidelines for residents on how to identify vibrio vulnificus infections after it killed three people over the summer.