In the wake of Hurricane Ian, a Florida county was ravaged by a flesh-eating bacteria. CBS News reported.
CBS News reported that Lee County has seen an increase in Vibrio vibrio vulnificus bacteria, which is a species of bacteria that lives in warm brackish water and comes into contact with humans via raw or undercooked seafood.
Officials believe that bacteria has grown because of flooding and storm surges.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bacteria can also be introduced through cuts and other open wounds. This can lead to severe skin infections that can prove life-threatening.
“Sewage spills in coastal waters, like those caused by Hurricane Ian, may increase bacteria levels,”Tammy Soliz, Lee County spokeswoman, stated in a press statement. “People with open wounds, cuts, or scratches can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with sea water or brackish water.”
Vibrio vibrio vulnificus has been described informally as a “flesh-eating”CBS News reported that primary infections can lead to skin cancers.
“Vibrio vulnificus can invade the bloodstream, causing a severe life-threatening illness with symptoms like fever, chills, decreased blood pressure (septic shock), and blistering skin lesions,”In a statement, the Florida Department of Health stated.
It is not possible to spread the disease from one person to another. WTSP reported.
Lee County has reported 29 cases of the disease and four deaths, while Collier County has reported three cases.
The disease can spread to the soft tissue of the body if it is not treated. Other infections may also be caused by the virus. USA Today reported.
You may experience symptoms such as fever, chills, swelling, blistering and skin lesions. Death can occur within a matter of days if the patient does not receive treatment.