MSDH issues statement of the risk of Vibrio infections

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) is reminding residents and visitors to be on guard to protect themselves from Vibrio bacteria, which live in warm coastal waters and can cause illness when exposed to an open wound or when a person eats contaminated seafood, especially raw oysters. The bacteria are most prevalent in May through October, when water temperatures are warmer.

There have been 29 Vibrio cases reported to MSDH this year, three of which were V. vulnificus(commonly called the “flesh eating” bacteria). No deaths attributed to Vibrio have been reported to MSDH this year. The majority of cases (62%, 18 cases) have occurred in District 9 (the lower six counties). 

When compared to this time last year, 40 Vibrio cases were reported to MSDH, with five reported asV. vulnificus. One death had been reported during this time last year, and it was associated with V. Vulnificus. Of the 40 reported cases, 26 cases (65%) occurred in District 9 residents.

Eating food contaminated with Vibrio can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain. Individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those with chronic liver disease, are also likely to develop a bloodstream infection with fever and chills, blistering skin lesions and possibly death.

Though anyone can become ill from the bacteria, you are more susceptible to complications if:

• You have liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or thalassemia.
• You receive immune-suppressing therapy for the treatment of disease.
• You take medicine to decrease stomach acid levels.
• You have had recent stomach surgery.

MSDH recommends residents take the following precautions to help prevent illness:

• Stay out of brackish or salt water if you have a wound (including cuts and scrapes) or cover your wound with a waterproof bandage if there’s a possibility it could come into contact with brackish or salt water, raw seafood or raw seafood juices.
• Wash wounds and cuts thoroughly with soap and water if they have been exposed to coastal waters or raw seafood or its juices.
• If you develop a skin infection, tell your medical provider if your skin has come into contact with brackish or salt water, raw seafood, or raw seafood juices.
• Don’t eat raw or undercooked oysters or other shellfish. Cook them before eating. 
• Always wash your hands with soap and water after handing raw shellfish. 
• Avoid contaminating cooked shellfish with raw shellfish and its juices.

For more information, including safe cooking guidelines, visit msdh.ms.gov/vibrio