Florida Sees Double the Normal Numbers of Infections Caused by the Flesh-Eating Bacteria Vibrio vulnificus

Although Vibrio vulnificus infections are associated with eating raw or undercooked shellfish, people can also be exposed to this bacterium when simply entering warm marine waters. After Hurricane Ian, there was immense flooding, exposing individuals and any wounds to this bacterium. According to the Florida Department of Health, in 2022, the state has reported 66 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections and 13 deaths from the bacterium. Lee County, where Ian made landfall, accounts for 42% of these cases. The 28 cases of Vibrio infection in Lee County followed exposure to floodwaters that carried high concentrations of this bacteria into people’s homes. Some may have been exposed while cleaning up after the storm.

Vibrio vulnificus normally lives in warm seawater or brackish waters. It can cause disease, or vibriosis, in those who have an open wound that is exposed to seawater. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many people with Vibrio vulnificus wound infection require intensive care or limb amputations and about 1 in 5 people with the infection die. Some infections lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection in which the flesh around an open wound, dies. Health officials advise people with open wounds or broken skin to avoid exposure to flood water, standing water, sea water and brackish water. Even those who harvest or handle raw shellfish should be careful and wear protective gloves to avoid infections. Those who do develop infections are advised to seek professional medical treatment immediately. The CDC estimates that vibriosis causes an estimated 80,000 illnesses and 100 deaths in the United States every year.

“Although infections due to Vibrio vulnificus are considered rare, for those infected it can be devastating and even life-threatening,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “At EMSL, we offer environmental and food testing services for Vibrio. These services are available to health professionals, food processors and retailers, and the public. EMSL has multiple laboratories in Florida and an extensive network of facilities across the United States and Canada to service clients.”

With over 50 locations in the United States and Canada, EMSL can help you with your projects. Our corporate office is located at 200 Route 130 North, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077. For more information contact (800) 220-3675, email: info@emsl.com or visit our website at www.EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail