Vibrio bacteria are found abundantly in marine environments and brackish waters.Harmful speciesof Vibrio, includingV.
These infections cause gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly diarrhea.
The infection can then set off a potentially fatal immune response called sepsis that requires immediate treatment.
A person walking on the beach during sunset on July 16, 2007 in Marco Island, FloridaPhoto: Marc Serota (Getty Images)
According to the Florida Department of Health, 20 people are known to havecontractedV.
vulnificus in the state this year as of early September.
So the flesh-eating season may be drawing to a close soon.
That said, its the most deaths reported in Florida since 2018, which saw nine deaths.
Necrotizing fasciitis is very rare in general.
But some scientistsworrythat these infections could becomemore commonin the years to come, thanks in part to climate change.
So, yeah, just some food for thought.
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