The following and attached information is being provided by the Florida Department of Health in Walton County.
Through intensive media exposure and misinformation reaching residents and visitors of Walton County, DOH-Walton wants to educate our partners and the public about Vibrio vulnificus. Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria commonly found in all warm brackish and salt water.
Transmission of Vibrio vulnificus can occur to individuals with open wounds going into water where the bacteria is present. Also, the bacteria can be present in raw shellfish, in particular oysters.
Infection from the bacteria is rare, but it can be the cause of a serious medical condition. Individuals at greatest risk of infection are people with weakened immune systems, particularly those with chronic liver disease.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
• Vomiting/diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• A skin infection may lead to skin breakdown and skin ulcers
The bacteria can invade the bloodstream, causing a severe illness with symptoms like fever, chills, decreased blood pressure (septic shock) and blistering skin lesions.
To prevent Vibrio vulnificus infections, avoid exposure of open wounds or broken skin to warm salt or brackish water. Cook shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) thoroughly.
If symptoms develop after exposure to warm brackish or salt water or ingestion of raw shellfish, please seek medical attention immediately.
For additional information, please contact:
Ryan E. Mims
Public Relations Specialist
Florida Department of Health in Walton County
362 State Hwy 83
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
(850) 892-8040, ext. 1159
Ryan.Mims@flhealth.gov
.FAQs-Vibrio-vulnificus 07.2014
Vibrio.Flyer
.FAQs-Vibrio-vulnificus 07.2014
Vibrio.Flyer
