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Along with the rising loss of life toll, Hurricane Ian has left one other disaster in its wake. In keeping with the Florida Division of Well being, there have been 65 instances of Vibrio vulnificus an infection and 11 deaths from the uncommon flesh-eating micro organism within the state to date this yr. These numbers are up from 34 complete instances and the ten deaths that have been reported throughout the state final yr.
The vast majority of the infections are primarily based in Lee County, the place Ian made landfall in late September as a Class 4 hurricane; nonetheless, the Florida Division of Well being in Lee County didn’t warn residents concerning the dangers related to Vibrio vulnificus till early October.
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that sometimes lives in heat, brackish seawater, however sewage spills in coastal waters, reminiscent of these brought on by Hurricane Ian, could improve micro organism ranges, in response to the DOH-Lee press launch. Whereas infections are uncommon, folks with open wounds might be uncovered to Vibrio vulnificus by way of direct contact with seawater containing the micro organism. Publicity can result in pores and skin breakdown and ulcers.
Anybody can get a Vibrio vulnificus an infection; nonetheless, it may be extra extreme for people who find themselves immunocompromised or have a weakened immune system. Individuals who have continual liver or kidney illness are additionally in danger. Signs embody watery diarrhea, which is usually accompanied by abdomen cramping, nausea, vomiting and fever.
Vibrio vulnificus can infect the bloodstream and trigger extreme life-threatening sickness with signs reminiscent of “fever, chills, decreased blood stress (septic shock) and blistering pores and skin lesions.”
For wound infections from Vibrio vulnificus, which can unfold to the remainder of the physique, signs embody “fever, redness, ache, swelling, heat, discoloration and discharge,” in response to the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention.
The an infection is handled with antibiotics, although amputation of the contaminated limb is typically obligatory. Vibrio vulnificus isn’t unfold person-to-person. People who find themselves involved they might have been uncovered are suggested to hunt fast medical consideration.
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