Florida hurricanes increase cases of carnivorous bacteria infection: what you need to know

As Florida continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, state health officials are warning that a deadly storm surge has led to a spike in infections caused by potentially deadly "flesh-eating" bacteria in flood waters, reports Yahoo.

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How many cases were there?

Vibrio vulnificus, a type of bacterium found in warm brackish water, has reported 65 infections this year, according to the Florida Department of Public Health, including 29 cases in Lee County, where Ian made landfall on September 28.

There have been 11 confirmed deaths linked to the bacterium in the state this year, including four deaths in Lee County since Ian came ashore.

"Sewage spills, like those caused by Hurricane Ian, could increase bacteria levels," the state health department said in a warning.

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And while most cases are mild, many people with Vibrio vulnificus infections "require intensive care or limb amputation," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “And approximately one in five people with this infection die, sometimes within a day or two of becoming ill,” the statement said.

What are the signs and symptoms of an infection?

Common symptoms include "watery diarrhea" often accompanied by stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, chills, and fever, according to the CDC.

Vibrio vulnificus can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a severe skin infection that dies off the flesh around an open wound, which is why it is called "carnivorous" bacteria. However, necrotizing fasciitis can be caused by more than one type of bacteria.

People with comorbid conditions, such as those with weakened immune systems or chronic liver disease, are more likely to contract the infection and suffer serious complications, health officials say.

However, Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare. Of the 65 confirmed cases in Florida this year, nearly half were due to Ian.

The Florida Department of Health said it had observed "an anomalous increase in cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection as a result of exposure to post-storm flood and stagnant water."

How can you protect yourself?

The Department of Health recommends that you stay away from water if you have open wounds, cuts, or scrapes, especially if you have a weakened immune system.

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“Water and wounds are incompatible,” reads a note on the Department’s website. "Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes."

If you come into contact with flood waters, "immediately wash wounds and cuts thoroughly with soap and clean water or bottled water," the department adds. And immunocompromised people "should wear proper leg protection to prevent cuts and injuries caused by rocks and shells on the beach."

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