The first death of Lee County by Vibrio Vulnificus shows serious health risks | Lee County

The number of people infected with a carnivorous virus in Florida has reached double -digit digits. The bacteria known as Vibrio Vulnificus live in brackish water and represents a serious health risk.

In Lee County, the first death associated with these bacteria was reported, which emphasized the potential severity of the infection.

According to the Florida Ministry of Health, Lee County is currently the only district in the southwest of Florida, which reports a case of Vibrio Vulnificus this year. These statistics were updated last Friday.

Vibrio Vulnificus can be found in brackish water and often comes with storm surge and floods during hurricanes. It is treatable for some, but can be fatal for others.

Dr. Mary Beth Saunders, Medical Director of Infection Prevention at Lee Health, explained the risks during an interview with Wink News after the 2024 hurricane season.

“You can ignore everything that happened to you physically, a cut or a wound, and if you only become sick and sick, present in the emergency room,” said Saunders.

Going into floods or in contact with soaked objects can cause these bacteria to be brought together. The treatment varies from a case, but immediate medical help is crucial if the exposure is suspected.

“Some people have to go to the operation immediately, and they have to take this no longer healthy tissue away, and several operations can include,” said Saunders.

Statistics of the Ministry of Health show that 2024 with 82 cases and 19 deaths was the highest year for Vibrio -Vulnificus infections and deaths. This fell with Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The second highest year was in 2022, in which Hurricane Ian landed in the southwest of Florida.