Florida Vibrio vulnificus update
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that normally lives in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios that are called “halophilic” because they require salt.
Image/CDC
The State of Florida has seen a number of cases in 2013 and I had the opportunity to discuss the situation with Vibrio vulnificus in the Sunshine State with Epidemiologist with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, Amy Pullman earlier this week.
The interview was aired Saturday, Oct. 26 on the Outbreak News This Week Radio show.
Ms. Pullman updated me with the latest numbers, not only of Vibrio vulnificus in the state and Hillsborough County, but of all Vibrio infections.
Since the Wednesday interview, Florida health officials have reported an additional case of V. vulnificus, bringing the total to 36 cases.
In addition, Pullman pointed out that they are seeing more infections due to saltwater wound exposure this year as opposed to consumption of raw oysters.
She also talked about the pathology of this bacterium, risk factors for serious disease and measures to take to prevent this potentially lethal infection.
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[…] LISTEN: Florida Vibrio vulnificus update on the Outbreak News This Week Radio Show. […]