Rising Cases of Flesh-Eating Bacteria: Know the Symptoms
A terrifying bacteria known as Vibrio vulnificus, also referred to as the “flesh-eating bacteria,” has been making headlines lately. With reports of deaths and patients resorting to amputations to control the infection, it’s no wonder this topic has captured public attention.
While this bacteria was previously more prevalent in the Gulf Coast states, recent months have seen cases spreading northward, reaching as far as New York, North Carolina, and Connecticut.
So what exactly is Vibrio vulnificus, and does it really devour flesh like something out of a horror movie? Let’s dive in and find out.
Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases on the Rise
Vibrio vulnificus belongs to a group of bacteria commonly referred to as “flesh-eating bacteria” due to their ability to cause life-threatening infections. While infections caused by this bacteria are rare, they are on the rise.
Renowned microbiologist and professor Rita Colwell from the University of Maryland, who has dedicated 50 years to studying Vibrio bacteria, reveals that cases of infections have multiplied in recent decades.
Every year, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) receives reports of approximately 150 to 200 V. vulnificus infections. Shockingly, about 20 percent of those infected succumb to the infection within just a day or two.
Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm, salty, and brackish waters, which explains why infections are most commonly reported in Gulf Coast states such as Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and especially Florida, with its extensive coastline.
However, there has been a concerning increase in V. vulnificus cases along the East Coast as well.
“Physicians along the Gulf Coast were familiar with this infection. But now that the Vibrio is moving up the Eastern Seaboard, I think physicians there—particularly those who work in the emergency room—are having to learn more about this infection,” explains Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine and health policy at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
According to a recent paper led by Ms. Colwell, V. vulnificus infection cases in Florida have increased fivefold between 1992 and 2022, while eastern states have seen an eightfold increase between 1988 and 2018.
The paper focused on coastal waters and examined the presence of V. vulnificus and a related bacteria called V. parahaemolyticus after Hurricane Ian. Surprisingly, the researchers discovered that hurricanes and floods can contribute to a higher prevalence of V. vulnificus in coastal waters.
Ms. Colwell was astonished by the concentration of the bacteria found in water samples, as V. vulnificus is typically less common in coastal waters.
Hurricane Ian created an environment that facilitated the growth of Vibrio bacteria. The storm’s turbulence, combined with runoff carrying nutrients, created ideal conditions for the bacteria to thrive and potentially cause infections.
“With the temperature of the water being so much higher, you’ve got this kind of colossal concatenation of events that are ideal for increased risk of bacteria being abundant in number and, hence, potential for infection,” Ms. Colwell explains.
How Do Flesh-Eating Bacteria Eat Flesh?
Under normal circumstances, if the skin’s barrier remains intact, the bacteria cannot cause a skin infection.
Flesh-eating bacteria typically enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, scrapes, or wounds. Once inside, they release toxins that break down nearby muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, leading to rapid and progressive tissue death. In some cases, they can also infiltrate other areas, such as the abdominal wall or perianal and groin regions, especially among immunocompromised individuals.
The body’s immune response further contributes to the deterioration of infected tissue. As immune cells gather in the infected area, pressure and air build up in the muscles, accelerating the death of muscle tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.
This rapid tissue death is known as necrotizing fasciitis, which gives the impression that the bacteria are literally consuming the flesh.
While Vibrio vulnificus is one of the bacteria that can cause necrotizing fasciitis, the most common culprit behind this condition is group A Streptococcus, also known as group A strep.
The increase in Vibrio vulnificus cases, particularly in states where infections were once rare, has raised concerns among health agencies and local governments.
Signs of Infection
Flesh-eating bacteria, or necrotizing fasciitis, causes excruciating pain in the infected areas due to the pressure and tissue damage.
“Incredible pain is one of the tipping points,” explains Dr. H. Dele Davies, a pediatric infectious disease expert from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Some patients may not exhibit any signs of physical injuries, as the bacteria may have entered their bodies through orifices. This is more common among immunocompromised individuals.
Even if the bacteria entered through a skin wound, the infection may not manifest at the entry site. Patients may develop redness or blisters near the wound opening.
“Occasionally, you’ll see a blister that’s filled with blood or black blood,” says Dr. Davies. “But the key message is that they just show up with a lot of pain,” often without being able to explain the cause of that pain.
Redness, swelling, and pus formation may also occur.
Amputation Not Always Necessary
When it comes to treating necrotizing fasciitis, surgical intervention is crucial, according to Dr. Davies.
A surgeon may perform a procedure called fasciotomy, which involves opening up the skin at the painful area to relieve pressure. The surgeon then examines the muscle, fascia, and soft tissues for signs of dead tissue, which are removed. The open wound is thoroughly washed with sterile water to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
Antibiotics are also administered intravenously to support the patient. However, Dr. Davies explains that these antibiotics cannot penetrate the fascia, so they are primarily given to prevent blood infections.
If left untreated, the infection in the limbs can spread to the blood vessels, leading to sepsis. This can cause organ dysfunction and a significant drop in blood pressure, potentially resulting in damage to the lungs, kidneys, liver, and other organs, and even death.
Symptoms of sepsis include fever, shaking, chills, a drop in blood pressure, and a visibly ill appearance.
Amputation of infected limbs is considered a last resort when the infection becomes too extensive. By this stage, doctors have typically attempted to remove damaged tissues and prescribed antibiotics. However, if the infection persists or worsens, amputation may be necessary.
“If they’re so sick that every time you check the blood, the bacteria is still present, that means you have a tap turned on somewhere,” explains Dr. Davies, comparing the bacterial infection to a leaky faucet. “If you don’t turn off that tap, no matter how many antibiotics you give, it’s like wiping the floor while the tap is still running. So part of the reason for amputations is to essentially turn off the flow of water into the sink.”
How to Reduce the Risk of Infection
According to the CDC, there are measures individuals can take to reduce their risk of infection. These include avoiding salty or brackish water if they have a wound from surgery, piercing, or tattoo.
If there’s a chance of coming into contact with saltwater, brackish water, or raw or undercooked seafood and its juices, the wound should be covered with a waterproof bandage.
Furthermore, any wounds or cuts should be thoroughly washed with soap and water after contact with any of these substances. While this may not eliminate all bacteria, it can help reduce the overall bacterial count and make infections more manageable, according to Dr. Davies.
“Overall, this is a rare condition. Most people who come into contact with brackish or saltwater will be fine,” he reassures. However, individuals with underlying liver disease, diabetes, cancer, or those who are immunocompromised should ensure they have no cuts or bruises before entering the water.
Cook Oysters Thoroughly Before Consumption
Less commonly, V. vulnificus can also cause foodborne poisoning through the consumption of raw shellfish and oysters.
Vibrio parahaemolyticus is responsible for the majority of foodborne infections caused by Vibrio bacteria. Most people infected with Vibrio experience three days of diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting before recovering.
In rare cases, gut infections can be fatal. In fact, over 95 percent of deaths resulting from seafood consumption are caused by V. vulnificus.
An infection can occur when consuming raw or undercooked oysters and shellfish that harbor the bacteria.
However, healthy individuals typically do not develop severe gut infections from consuming raw or undercooked shellfish contaminated with Vibrio, explains Dr. Schaffner.
Immunocompromised individuals, as well as those with liver cirrhosis or high iron concentration in the blood, are particularly at risk. If a gut infection develops and is not eliminated, the bacteria may infiltrate the gut lining and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing life-threatening blood infections.
“This doesn’t pose a threat to normal individuals, but immunocompromised people are advised against consuming raw oysters,” warns Dr. Schaffner.
Treatments for Vibrio vulnificus infections. What are some current research initiatives in this area?
T was conducive for the growth and spread of Vibrio vulnificus. The combination of warm waters, increased salinity, and disrupted ecosystems provided the perfect breeding ground for the bacteria. As a result, the number of infections skyrocketed in coastal areas affected by the hurricane.
What makes Vibrio vulnificus particularly dangerous is its ability to infect humans through open wounds or by consuming contaminated seafood. The bacteria enters the body and releases toxins that can lead to severe skin infections, bloodstream infections, and even necrotizing fasciitis, a condition commonly referred to as flesh-eating disease.
Early symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection include fever, chills, and nausea. As the infection progresses, individuals may experience extreme pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the wound. In severe cases, the infection can spread throughout the body, causing sepsis and organ failure.
It is important to note that not everyone who comes into contact with Vibrio vulnificus will develop an infection. Those at higher risk include individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic liver disease, or certain underlying medical conditions.
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding Vibrio vulnificus infections. The CDC recommends several measures to reduce the risk, such as avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish, thoroughly cooking seafood, and practicing good hygiene, especially when handling seafood or coming into contact with seawater. It is also important to promptly clean and cover any cuts or wounds and seek medical attention if symptoms of infection appear.
As Vibrio vulnificus continues to spread to new areas, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to be aware of the symptoms and to educate the public on prevention measures. Improved surveillance and reporting systems can help identify outbreaks and ensure timely interventions to prevent the further spread of the bacteria.
Efforts are also being made to develop vaccines and
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...