Louisiana reports five deaths linked to Vibrio vulnificus infections
The state health department said nine Vibrio vulnificus cases have been confirmed this year, five of which were fatal, and urged residents to avoid exposing wounds to seawater.
Louisiana health officials said nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection have been confirmed this year, resulting in five deaths. All cases involved wounds that had been in contact with seawater and occurred in patients with pre-existing health conditions. The Louisiana Department of Health noted that the bacterium is naturally present in warm coastal waters, with higher concentrations from May through October, and can infect through open wounds or consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters.
"Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in warm coastal waters and are found in higher numbers from May to October, when water temperatures are warmer. Infection can occur when an open wound is exposed to brackish or salt water or when a person eats raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters," the department said.
The department warned that Vibrio infections can cause gastrointestinal illness, wound infection, or bloodstream infection, and that some strains, including V. vulnificus, may lead to severe disease requiring intensive care or, in rare cases, amputation. It added that about one in five people infected with V. vulnificus die.
Residents were advised to seek immediate medical attention if a wound exposed to brackish or salt water becomes red, swollen, painful, warm, or discolored, and to inform healthcare providers about any water exposure.