Flesh-eating bacteria claims seven lives on US coasts

The United States has recorded seven deaths this year from a dangerous "flesh-eating" bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, with the latest fatalities occurring in Louisiana and Florida along the Gulf Coast. Health officials are advising the public to exercise extreme caution, particularly when entering the sea with open wounds or consuming raw seafood.

Louisiana's Department of Health reported nine patients infected with the bacteria, all of whom required hospitalization, resulting in five deaths. This figure exceeds the historical average for this time of year. Florida has also reported a new death in Marion County, bringing its total to one death and 14 cases, following the state's first reported fatality on July 30.

Health authorities emphasize that infections typically rise from May to October, coinciding with warmer water temperatures. Exposure can occur through open wounds coming into contact with seawater or by eating raw shellfish, especially oysters. The bacteria, known for causing severe skin lesions and bloodstream infections, can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, low blood pressure, and gastrointestinal distress.

"People with severe infections may require intensive care or amputation of limbs. About one in five people with a Vibrio vulnificus infection dies, sometimes a day or two after becoming ill," warned the Louisiana Department of Health. Annually, between 150 and 200 Vibrio vulnificus infections are reported nationwide, primarily in Gulf Coast states, according to the CDC. Studies suggest that rising sea temperatures could increase annual cases by 50% by 2090, leading to significant associated costs.