Flesh-eating bacteria in Gulf kills 5 in Louisiana, what SWFL swimmers should know

BATON ROUGE, La. (WINK)— Louisiana health officials are urging people to take precautions after a dangerous uptick in severe cases of flesh-eating bacteria infection.

The state has reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus so far this year, with five proving fatal. During the same period in previous years, Louisiana averaged seven cases and one death.

If you're planning a beach trip here in Southwest Florida soon, health officials warn to take extra precautions with any open wounds. The Louisiana Department of Health said all nine cases reported this year were linked to wounds exposed to seawater, and all of the patients had underlying health conditions.

"Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in warm coastal waters and are found in higher numbers from May to October, when water temperatures are warmer," the Louisiana Department of Health said. "Infection can occur when an open wound is exposed to brackish or salt water or when a person eats raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters."

Around this time last year, a Naples man, Albert Allison, battled an infection from this bacteria after a seemingly normal fishing trip at Naples Bay.

Vibrio infection can result in gastrointestinal illness, wound infection or blood poisoning, officials said. Some species, including Vibrio vulnificus, can cause severe and life-threatening infections.

"People with severe infections may require intensive care or limb amputation," health officials said. "About one in five people with Vibrio vulnificus infection dies, sometimes within a day or two of becoming ill."

Authorities said people should seek medical care immediately if a wound exposed to brackish or salt water becomes red, swollen, painful, warm or discolored.