As temperature rises around the world, warmer coastal and recreational waters can create better conditions for certain bacteria. One of the organisms that have received growing attention is Vibrio, a group of bacteria naturally found in coastal and brackish waters. Some Vibrio infections can be extremely serious, especially if bacteria enter the body through an open wound.
The word ‘flesh-eating bacteria’ is commonly used in media coverage of serious infections such as necrotizing fasciitis. Not every Vibrio infection causes this disease and different types of bacteria in the body can cause necrotizing fasciitis. But severe infections can get worse very soon, and early care is of necessity.
Why are warming waters a concern
Water temperature can affect the abundance and distribution of some bacteria. Vibrio bacteria are naturally present in marine and estuarine environments, and warmer conditions can create more suitable environments for some species.
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People can be exposed while swimming, fishing, wading or participating in other activities in coastal waters. Infection happens when contaminated water comes into contact with a cut, scrape, surgical wound, tattoo, piercing or other break in the skin.
Some Vibrio species can also cause illness after a person eats raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters. Therefore, water exposure is not the only route of infection.
Who is at higher risk
Most people who are exposed to natural waters do not develop serious infections. But some underlying health conditions can increase the risk of serious illness from Vibrio, particularly Vibrio vulnificus. People with chronic liver disease, diabetes, weakened immune systems or some blood disorders may be at higher risk.
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Older adults and people with other significant chronic health problems may also need to take extra care. Anyone with an open wound should be particularly careful around coastal or brackish water.
How can you protect yourself
If an open wound has saltwater or brackish water in it, the safest steps are to take. When swimming is unavoidable, cover minor cuts completely with a waterproof bandage if it’s possible, and avoid exposure if possible.
Wash wounds thoroughly with clean running water and soap after accidental exposure. Keep the area clean and monitor it for changes.
It is also very important to heed local health advisories and avoid swimming in waters that authorities have identified as unsafe. Natural bodies of water can harbour microorganisms that are not present in treated pools, so public health warnings are a must keep in mind.
When handling seafood, especially raw shellfish, food-safety precautions are required. People at high risk of severe Vibrio infection should discuss with a healthcare provider whether they should avoid raw or undercooked shellfish altogether.
Know the warning signs
A wound infection may initially look like a typical skin infection, but serious infections can escalate quickly. Warning signs might include redness, swelling, warmth or pain around a wound, fever, chills, weakness, blisters, skin discoloration or inflammation that spreads rapidly.
Severe pain that seems disproportionate to the appearance of a wound is particularly concerning. Necrotizing fasciitis is a medical emergency and needs urgent treatment. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe if you have a rapidly worsening wound after exposure to coastal or brackish water.
People who have eaten raw or undercooked shellfish should also seek medical attention, especially if they are at risk of severe Vibrio infection.
Don't panic focus on prevention
The presence of bacteria in warm water does not mean every swimmer is at high risk. For most people, sensible precautions can substantially reduce exposure. Avoiding contaminated or restricted waters, protecting wounds, practising good wound hygiene and cooking seafood thoroughly are practical steps.
Waterborne infections are more and more of a concern as the water gets warmer. Knowledge of how exposure happens and the more severe symptoms that can occur can lead to safer outdoor activities and urgent medical care for those who need it.
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