The bacteria that eats human flesh, a danger that develops in the salty waters of the coasts of Floridahas struck again after a decade of relative calm, health authorities warned.
Apparently, according to the Department of Health, the so-called “Sunshine State” has seen an increase in cases of this bacterium so far this year, a phenomenon that has been reinforced in recent weeks by the passage of the Hurricane Ian.
As of last Friday, as reported by the department this Wednesday, 65 cases of infections by Vibrio vulnificus, name of the bacteria that infiltrates through skin wounds, with the consequence of 11 deaths in Florida this year, the highest figure. This contrasts with 34 cases and 10 deaths throughout 2021.
In Lee County, where Ian hit hard last month, the health department is reporting 29 cases this year and four deaths.
Earlier this month, Lee County health officials warned people that the post-hurricane environment, including warm, standing water, could pose a danger due to life-threatening bacteria.
“Flooding and standing water after a hurricane present many risks, including infectious diseases such as vibrio vulnificus”, explained the county health department in a press release in early October, in which it urged the public to take precautions.
The advisory said that people with open wounds, cuts or scrapes may be exposed to the bacteria through contact with sea or brackish water. Consequently, these people should avoid such water and seek immediate medical attention if an infection develops.
