JACKSONVILLE — Florida health officials are warning residents and tourists a rare form of potentially deadly bacteria has made its way to Florida beaches.
The Vibrio vulnificus bacterium grows fastest in warm saltwater and has already infected at least seven people, killing two this year in Florida. The state health department says there have been 32 cases in the past 12 months. Officials say a spike in cases occurs from May to October, when water is the warmest.
Florida Health Department spokeswoman Mara Burger says consuming or handling raw shellfish and swimming in warm saltwater can put people at risk. People with open wounds also can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater.
The bacterial infection can cause gastroenteritis, sepsis and can lead to amputation.
According to an Oct. 4, 2013, Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers report, the last Treasure Coast death from the bacteria was in St. Lucie County in 2012. The only reported illness that year also was in St. Lucie County, one of 27 cases statewide that year, including nine deaths, state reports show. Two of the 27 were linked to the Indian River Lagoon near Melbourne in Brevard County.
During the summer months, the Florida Department of Health sees an increase in reports of infections due to Vibrio vulnificus. The Florida Department of Health has launched a new webpage to provide educational materials regarding this bacterium.
About Vibrio vulnificus:
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that normally lives in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios that are called “halophilic” because they require salt.
Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare.
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria in warm, brackish seawater.
Water and wounds do not mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes.
Individuals who are immunocompromised, e.g chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune system, should wear proper foot protection to prevent cuts and injury caused by rocks and shells on the beach.
Source: Florida Department of Health
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