Report by
Safety Report: Increase of Vibrio vulnificus infections in Florida following Hurricane Ian, Florida, USA
2 years ago •source lee.floridahealth.gov
Outbreak
Florida, United States
Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) is urging the public to take precautions against infection and illness caused by Vibrio vulnificus following Hurricane Ian.According to the DOH-Lee warning, Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that usually lives in warm, brackish sea water. These bacteria typically grow faster during warmer months. Sewage spills in coastal waters, like those caused by Hurricane Ian, may increase bacteria levels. People with open wounds, cuts, or scratches can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with sea water or brackish water. Brackish water is a mixture of fresh and sea water and is often found where rivers meet the sea. Vibrio vulnificus can also cause disease in those who eat raw or undercooked oysters and shellfish. Vibrio vulnificus has the potential to cause severe illness or death.
According to the department, there are currently 65 confirmed cases and 11 deaths from the rare bacterium, with an asterisk noting there is an "abnormal increase due to the impacts of Hurricane Ian.
Source: www.foxnews.com/health/florida-officials-report-record-number-infections-caused-flesh-eating-bacteria-hurricane-ian
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