This holiday is a new one health alert has jumped to warn us of a bacterium which has been found mainly in the Mediterranean Sea. This is called ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ and refers to microorganisms of the genus Vibrio. This summer season has seen a proliferation on the European and Spanish coasts due to the rising seawater temperatures. But, despite being called ‘flesh-eating bacteria’, it is important to understand that it is because of the toxins that release and destroy the skin fairly quickly, causing a condition called necrotizing fasciitis.
What are the routes of contagion
Infection with this bacteria is not like others. It is not transmitted from one human to another, but there are other forms of contagion with which we must be careful this summer.
One of the ways is through contact with open wounds. This can happen when bathing with a wound in contaminated seawater. If you have a cut, burn, scrape or recent surgery, it is important to be cautious when swimming in the sea. Normally, if there is contagion through this method, there is a severe redness, swelling, intense pain, blisters, and rapid tissue breakdown. In especially severe cases, the infection can spread to the blood. (sepsis) or require amputation.
Another form of contagion is through consumption of raw seafood. Mainly, through the ingestion of oysters or mollusks that are usually undercooked. The symptoms in this case are similar to those of acute gastroenteritis with watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills.
Although anyone can be susceptible to contagion, there are higher risk groups. Among them we find people with pre-existing medical conditions such as chronic liver disease, diabetes, cancer or those that weaken the immune system.
How to prevent contagion?
Despite the fear that catching this bacteria can cause, there are measures that can help us prevent it this summer. The first and main one is avoid bathing with wounds. Avoid diving into the sea if you have open wounds, recent cuts, or healing tattoos. If bathing is essential, try covering them with waterproof dressings to prevent water from entering.
When you leave the sea try wash yourself with fresh water, emphasizing wounds or grazes. Also, be careful with seafood, cooking them properly.
Lastly, try to pay attention to the alerts. It is important to pay attention to any warnings from local authorities and avoid swimming on beaches that are temporarily closed or in murky waters after strong storms.
