Flesh-eating bacteria infections are surging along the Gulf Coast with five deaths reported in Louisiana

Health officials in Louisiana are urging beachgoers to take precautions amid a rising number of infections from flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. Nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections have been confirmed this year, resulting in five deaths, compared to an average of seven cases and one death over the previous decade.

The Gulf Coast, particularly Florida, experiences an ideal environment for this bacteria, with most infections reported between May and October. The bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin, often during activities such as swimming or handling raw seafood. Elderly individuals, those with weakened immune systems, and people with liver disease, diabetes, or chronic illnesses are at higher risk.

Doctors advise seeking immediate medical attention if a wound exposed to brackish or saltwater becomes red, swollen, painful, warm, or discolored. To prevent infection, individuals should wash cuts and scrapes thoroughly, seek medical care if symptoms arise, avoid consuming undercooked shellfish, and cook shellfish properly.