What is 'Vibrio vulnificus', the "devouring" bacterium that has caused five deaths in the United States?

BarcelonaIn the summer, as coastal waters warm up, so does the presence of a bacterium that can cause serious infections in humans. It is Vibrio vulnificus, a microorganism that lives naturally in marine waters and can enter the body through an open wound. The US state of Louisiana has recorded nine cases of infection this year, five of which have resulted in the death of those affected. All have required hospitalization and authorities have linked them to exposure of wounds to seawater. In the previous ten years, the state had recorded an average of seven cases and one death annually.

The bacterium can also be contracted after consuming raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters. It is popularly known as the "flesh-eating bacterium" because in some cases it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, an infection that rapidly destroys the tissue around a wound. The nickname, however, is imprecise: the bacterium does not literally eat flesh and necrotizing fasciitis can also be caused by other microorganisms.

The most severe infections can reach the bloodstream and cause a generalized infection. The risk is particularly high in the elderly, those with liver disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus dies.

How can it be prevented?

The main prevention measures involve avoiding open wounds coming into contact with seawater. If entering the water, it is advisable to cover any cut, scratch, or wound with a waterproof dressing, especially in people with risk factors. If a wound comes into contact with coastal water, it should be washed immediately and thoroughly with clean water and soap. If symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain appear that evolve rapidly, medical attention should be sought.

In general, Vibrio vulnificus is not usually transmitted between people; rather, the risk is concentrated mainly in contact with warm coastal waters and the consumption of contaminated seafood. Regarding this second mode of contagion, the recommendation is to cook seafood properly and avoid consuming it raw, especially in people with liver diseases, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.