Orlando

A rare but deadly 'flesh-eating' bacteria has killed at least 13 people in Florida as the southern US state recovers from the aftermath of two hurricanes.

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Cases of Vibrio vulnificus are at a record high of 74 this year in the state, according to media reports citing local health authorities.

This is a sharp increase from 46 cases and 11 deaths for the whole of 2023. 

Also read: India's Kerala reports fourth case of rare brain-eating amoeba infection; death toll at three

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The people of the state are still picking up the pieces after the devastation by Hurricane Helene in September, which was followed by Hurricane Milton in early October.

The storms led to massive flooding and mixing of freshwater with saltwater, which is ideal for the vibriobacteria to grow.

Watch:  Gravitas: 'Flesh-eating disease' spreading at record rate in Japan

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What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria living in warm, brackish seawater. It infects people through open wounds or when ingested. To this extent, some experts say that 'flesh-eating bacteria' may be a misnomer, as it cannot infect intact skin.

Heavy rainfall can help the bacteria population to grow, particularly in coastal areas.

Also read: 'Deaths happen within 48 hours': Rare flesh-eating bacteria spreads in Japan

Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare but can be fatal, with nearly 20 per cent of those infected dying from it. 

Once infected, Vibrio vulnificus can prompt the breakdown of skin and soft tissue.

Immuno-compromised people, like the elderly and those suffering from liver diseases, are at greater risk of infection.

As per data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 150 to 200 Vibrio vulnificus cases are reported in the US each year.

Vibrio vultificus bacteria symptoms

Fever, redness, and severe tissue damage, which may need amputation to prevent further spread, are among the symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus.

It can also cause watery diarrhoea with stomach cramping, nausea and vomiting.

Chills, low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions are other symptoms.

Treatment for Vibrio vulnificus

Those exposed to floodwaters and showing these symptoms should seek medical help immediately.

Treatment includes antibiotics.

In some rare cases, limb amputation may be required to prevent further damage to infected tissue.

How to prevent vibrio-bacteria infection

Authorities have asked people to avoid exposure of skin to floodwaters.

Wounds and open cuts should be covered, and exposed skin should be washed thoroughly.

"While floodwaters are present, there is an increased risk of Vibrio infections, such as Vibrio vulnificus, which can be life-threatening," the Florida Health Department said in a release.

(With inputs from agencies)