Public Health Alert - Louisiana reported two deaths from raw oyster consumption due to Vibrio vulnificus [1] - At least 22 other Vibrio cases in Louisiana have resulted in hospitalization [1] - Florida has seen 23 Vibrio cases with five deaths this year [1] - Vibrio infections are seasonal, with increased prevalence between May and October due to warmer coastal waters [3][4] Risk Factors and Prevention - Infections can occur through swimming with open wounds or consuming raw/undercooked seafood [2][4] - Avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially raw oysters [4] - Wash hands after handling raw seafood [5] - Avoid swimming in brackish or salt water with open wounds (including new piercings, tattoos, or post-surgery) [5] - Immediately clean wounds and seek medical attention if infection symptoms appear [5] Symptoms and Actions - Foodborne symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills [7] - Wound infections can lead to fever, redness, pain, skin discoloration, and fluid leakage; in severe cases, limb removal may be necessary [7][8] - Seek immediate medical attention (ER) if serious symptoms develop, especially related to wound infections [6][7][8]

Health Alert & Risk Factors - Florida health officials issued a warning after 4 deaths and at least 11 illnesses due to a rare flesh-eating bacteria (Vibrio vulnificus) found in warm coastal waters [1] - Infections from Vibrio vulnificus can be severe and life-threatening for some individuals [1] - Individuals with immune-compromising conditions and liver disease are most at risk [3] - Anyone can get the infection, and while sometimes mild, it can spread rapidly [3] Transmission & Prevention - The bacteria can spread through raw seafood, mainly oysters, or through open wounds in direct contact with seawater [1] - Warm waters during hurricane season can create a breeding ground for the bacteria [2] - Doctors recommend covering open wounds with bandages and thoroughly cleaning cuts and scratches if exposed to seawater [4] - At-risk individuals should avoid eating raw seafood [4] Symptoms & Action - Recognizing symptoms like pain, swelling, or redness near an open wound or blistering can be the difference between life and death [3] - A charter boat captain contracted the bacteria 6 years ago, leading to a two-week medically induced coma after developing a blister about the size of a half dollar above his ankle [2]