Louisiana health officials are warning people to be careful around warm coastal waters after a rise in serious infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus. The state has reported nine cases so far this year, including five deaths.
Officials say all nine people became infected after wounds were exposed to seawater. Each person also had an underlying health condition that may have increased the risk of serious illness.
What Is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a type of bacteria that can live in warm saltwater and brackish water. People can become infected when an open cut or wound comes into contact with contaminated water.
The bacteria can also cause illness when someone eats raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters.
Infections Can Become Serious Quickly
A Vibrio vulnificus infection can cause redness, swelling and severe pain around a wound. In serious cases, the infection can spread quickly through the body and become life-threatening.
Health officials say about one in five people who develop a serious infection dies. Some deaths can occur within a short time after symptoms begin.
People with certain health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness. This is why officials are urging people with weakened immune systems or other medical problems to take extra care around coastal water.
How to Protect Yourself
People with open cuts or wounds should avoid swimming or wading in warm saltwater and brackish water. If a wound does come into contact with seawater, it should be cleaned carefully with soap and clean water.
People should also avoid eating raw or undercooked oysters and other shellfish.
Anyone who develops redness, swelling, severe pain or other signs of infection after being exposed to seawater should seek medical care quickly. Tell the doctor about the water exposure so the possible cause can be considered.
As Louisiana’s coastal waters remain warm, health officials are urging residents and visitors to understand the risks and take simple precautions to help prevent serious infections.
Follow us for Health news
The 2DayBulletins Editorial Team publishes accurate, timely, and well-researched news and articles across Trending Topics , Business and Finance , Politics, Entertainment, Sports, Technology, Health, with a focus on delivering reliable information to readers.