Explainer: What is Vibrio vulnificus, the flesh-eating bacteria? Know facts and prevention measures

The global impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic remains, yet a new concern called Vibrio vulnificus bacteria has emerged. Although few cases have surfaced, an alarming alert has been raised in the United States about this hazardous bacterium. This particular bacterium has the unsettling ability to consume infected individuals' flesh, leading to three reported deaths so far. Alongside these fatalities, numerous new cases have been identified. Wondering how Vibrio vulnificus spreads and inflicts harm?

Health experts stress the urgency of immediate treatment for those infected with Vibrio vulnificus. The bacteria swiftly wreak havoc on body parts, as evidenced by patients in New York and Connecticut, USA. Christopher Boyle, Director of Communications at the Department of Public Health, shared that these infections emerged from swimming pools and, in one case, from consuming seafood, resulting in one fatality among three individuals aged 60 to 80 years.

How does this bacterial infection spread?

Experts are delving into the origins of Vibrio vulnificus. Latin roots define "Vibrio" as "to vibrate," while "vulnificus" means "to wound." Consumption of undercooked food can expose you to Vibrio vulnificus. Furthermore, if you possess an open wound while swimming, your susceptibility to this bacterium increases. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, infection occurs through contaminated food and open wounds, with a higher prevalence reported between May and October, as per the New York Post.

What are the common symptoms?

Health professionals regard Vibrio vulnificus infection as highly perilous. Immediate treatment is imperative upon symptom onset. Approximately one in five patients succumbs to this infection. Rapidly spreading through open wounds, it has earned the moniker "flesh-eating bacteria." Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and shivering, manifesting around 24 hours after infection and lasting for about three days.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Vibrio vulnificus infection can weaken immunity in many patients. Blood tests, wound samples, or stool samples are employed for diagnosis. Hydration is crucial, and antibiotics are typically administered. Previous instances of infection were noted in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Preventing bacterial infection:

Amidst the investigation into Vibrio vulnificus bacterial cases in New York, precautionary measures are emphasized. Recommendations include avoiding swimming with open wounds, consuming thoroughly cooked food, and abstaining from raw or undercooked dishes. Most cases appear during the summertime temperature surge.

Read more: Himachal rains: What are Cloudbursts that killed 56 people? Why are they hard to predict?