Louisiana health officials warn of rising Vibrio infections on Gulf beaches

Louisiana health officials reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections this year, all requiring hospitalization and resulting in five fatalities. The state health department said the number exceeds the ten-year average of seven cases and one death.

"Seek medical care immediately if a wound exposed to brackish or salt water becomes red, swollen, painful, warm or discolored," the release advised, adding that patients should inform providers about recent water exposure.

The bacterium thrives in warm, salty coastal waters and is most common from May through October along the Gulf Coast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that Vibrio vulnificus accounts for up to 20% of infections that become fatal, a higher rate than other Vibrio species.

Florida has reported 14 cases and two deaths so far this year, compared with 33 cases and five deaths during the previous year, with spikes often linked to tropical storms and hurricanes.

Infection can occur through consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters, or when the bacteria enter through cuts, scrapes, recent piercings, tattoos or surgical wounds after contact with seawater. Severe illness is more likely among older adults, people with weakened immune systems, liver disease, diabetes or other chronic conditions.

Scientists attribute the expanding range of Vibrio infections to climate change, citing a 2023 study that found the northernmost cases shifting about 30 miles north each year.

The CDC recommends washing any skin breaks thoroughly with soap and clean water after exposure to coastal water or raw seafood, monitoring for fever, chills or rapidly spreading red skin that darkens and blisters, and seeking prompt medical care. It also advises handling raw shellfish with gloves, washing hands afterward, and discarding shellfish with open shells before cooking.