PENSACOLA, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (FDOH-Escambia) is investigating a death related to a Harmful vibrio infection.
FDOH-Escambia urges residents to take precautions against infection and illness by avoiding eating raw or undercooked oysters and other shellfish or exposing open wounds to seawater and estuarine water.
Harmful vibrio is a bacterium that usually lives in warm, brackish seawater. These bacteria usually grow faster during the warmer months. People with open wounds, cuts or scrapes may be exposed Harmful vibrio through direct contact with seawater or estuarine water. Also, Harmful vibrio can cause illness in those who eat raw or undercooked oysters and shellfish. Harmful vibrio has the potential to cause serious illness or death.
Healthy individuals usually develop mild disease; however, Harmful vibrio Infections can be serious for people with weakened immune systems.
- Symptoms of Harmful vibrio may include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Wound infection can lead to skin breakdown and blisters.
- In people with a weakened immune system, especially those with chronic liver disease, Harmful vibrio it can invade the bloodstream, causing a serious, life-threatening illness with symptoms such as fever, chills, low blood pressure (septic shock), and blistering skin lesions.
Individuals experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact a physician for diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with wound infections should also seek care immediately.
TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY AND SAFE
- Cook oysters and other shellfish thoroughly by frying, boiling or baking them to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses in the meat.
- Avoid exposing open wounds, cuts, or scrapes to seawater or estuarine water.
- Immediately clean and monitor wounds received in the marine environment or from immature shellfish; seek immediate medical attention if signs of infection appear.
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About the Florida Department of Health
Florida Department of Health Nationally Accredited by Public Health Accreditation Boardworks to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
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