Florida records two new Vibrio vulnificus cases, brings state total to 35
The Florida Department of Health (FL-DOH) has reported an additional two cases of Vibrio vulnificus infection in an update today, bringing the total cases recorded this year to 35.
Vibrio vulnificus
Image/Janice Haney Carr
According to Florida Department of Health Epidemiologist, Amanda Pullman, the new cases were reported from Citrus and Gulf counties. The total of 35 is the highest number of cases in the Sunshine state since 2011.
Vibrio vulnificus is a rare cause of disease, but it is also underreported. Between 1988 and 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of more than 900 Vibrio vulnificus infections from the Gulf Coast states, where most cases occur.
Before 2007, there was no national surveillance system for Vibrio vulnificus, but CDC collaborated with Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi to monitor the number of cases in the Gulf Coast region. In 2007, infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus and other vibrio species became nationally notifiable.
In cases of Vibrio vulnificusinfection, treatment should be initiated immediately because antibiotics improve survival. Aggressive attention should be given to the wound site; for patients with wound infections, amputation of the infected limb is sometimes necessary.
For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page
Looking for a job in health care? Check here to see what’s available
