Warning about Bacteria in Water
A bad bacteria has killed five people in Louisiana. This is more than usual.
Health officials warn people to be careful before going in the water.
Vibrio vulnificus is a type of bacteria found in warm water. It can cause serious infections if it gets into an open wound.
There is bad bacteria in the water near a popular vacation spot.
People can get infected if they eat raw or undercooked shellfish.
There have been nine cases and five deaths in Louisiana this year. All the cases were linked to people with open wounds in the water.
A bad bacteria has killed five people in Louisiana. This is more than usual.
In the past, the state had fewer cases and deaths.
The bacteria are more common in warmer water from May to October.
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Vibrio vulnificus can cause a sickness with vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
People with bad infections may need hospital care or to remove a limb. About one in five people with this infection dies.
The bacteria are more common in warmer water from May to October.
The first signs of a Vibrio skin infection are fever, redness, and pain.
Healthy people usually have mild symptoms, but others can get very sick.
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If the bacteria get into the blood, it can cause a bad illness with fever and skin lesions.
Some cases can cause an infection that kills the flesh around a wound. This is why it's called 'flesh-eating bacteria.'
Doctors diagnose the infection by testing stool, wounds, or blood.
For mild cases, drink more water to prevent dehydration.
People with bad infections should take antibiotics to survive.
People with bad infections should take antibiotics to survive.
Surgery may be needed to remove dead tissue from wounds.
About one in five people will die from the infection.
Don't go in warm water if you have cuts or wounds.
Take our lifestyle quiz.
Don't eat raw oysters or shellfish, and be careful with food.
Wear gloves when handling raw shellfish.
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Some people are at higher risk and should be extra careful.
Melissa Rudy is a health editor. You can send her story tips.