A scientist explains why the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is so concerned about the rise of these deadly infections in this country and how to avoid contracting them.
carnivorous bacteria This sounds like the premise of a bad horror movie, but They pose a growing (and potentially deadly) threat to populations.
In September 2023, the Centers for Disaster Control and Prevention They issued a health advisory alert doctors and public health officials an increase in cases of flesh-eating bacteria that can cause serious wound infections.
I’m a teacher at the Indiana University School of Medicine, where my laboratory study microbiology and infectious diseases . I have here why the CDC is so concerned about this deadly infection and ways to avoid getting it.
Infections caused by carnivorous bacteria are increasing: what does “eating meat” mean?
exist various types of bacteria that can infect open wounds and cause a rare disease called Necrotizing fasciitis . These bacteria don’t just damage the surface of the skin: they release toxins that destroy underlying tissues, including muscles, nerves and blood vessels. Once bacteria reach the bloodstream, they easily gain access to other tissues and organ systems. If left untreated, necrotizing fasciitis can be fatal, sometimes within 48 hours.
Bacterial species Streptococcus from group A , or group A streptococcus, is the most common culprit of necrotizing fasciitis. But the CDC’s latest warning points to an additional suspect, a type of bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus . There is only between 150 and 200 cases of Vibrio vulnificus every year in the United States, but the mortality rate is high: 1 in 5 people succumb to the infection.
How are flesh-eating bacteria contracted?
Vibrio vulnificus lives mainly in warm sea water, but it is also found in brackish waters, areas where the ocean mixes with fresh water. In the United States, most infections occur the warmer months, between May and October . People who swim, fish, or walk in these bodies of water can contract the bacteria through an open wound or sore.
Vibrio vulnificus It can also enter shellfish harvested from these waters, including shellfish such as oysters. Eating these foods raw or undercooked can cause food poisoning , and handling them with an open wound can provide an entry point for bacteria causing necrotizing fasciitis. In the USA., Vibrio vulnificus is one of the main causes of fish-associated deaths .
Why are carnivore bacterial infections increasing?
Vibrio vulnificus It is found in warm coastal waters around the world. In the United States, this includes the southern Gulf Coast states. But Rising ocean temperatures due to global warming are creating new habitats for this type of bacteria, which we now find along the east coast to the north of New York and Connecticut . A recent study noted that wound infections by Vibrio vulnificus They increased eightfold between 1988 and 2018 in the eastern United States.
Climate change It also causes stronger hurricanes and storm surges, which have been linked to increased cases of infection by flesh-eating bacteria.
In addition to increasing water temperatures, the number of people is increasing more vulnerable to serious infections including those who suffer from diabetes and those who take medications that suppress immunity.
What are the symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis? How is it treated?
The first symptoms from an infected wound include:
- Fever.
- Redness.
- Severe pain or swelling at the site of injury.
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Necrotizing fasciitis can progress quickly and produce ulcers, blisters, skin discoloration and pus.
Treatment of carnivorous bacteria It’s a race against time. Doctors administer antibiotics directly into the bloodstream to kill bacteria. In many cases, it is necessary to surgically remove damaged tissue to stop the rapid spread of infection. This sometimes leads to amputation affected extremities.
Researchers worry that a growing number of cases are becoming untreatable because Vibrio vulnificus has developped resistance to certain antibiotics .
How can I protect myself?
The CDC offers several recommendations to help prevent infections .
It is recommended people who have had a recent cut, including a new piercing or tattoo, should stay away from water that could shelter them Vibrio vulnificus . Otherwise, the wound should be completely covered with a waterproof dressing.
People with an open wound should also Avoid handling raw seafood or fish. Wounds caused by fishing, shellfish preparation, or swimming should be washed immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
Anyone can get necrotizing fasciitis, but people with weakened immune systems do. more susceptible to serious illness . This includes people taking immunosuppressive medications or those with pre-existing conditions such as liver disease, cancer, HIV or diabetes.
It is important to note that necrotizing fasciitis still very rare Currently. But given its severity, it is beneficial to stay informed.
*Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University.
Source: Latercera
I’m Rose Brown , a journalist and writer with over 10 years of experience in the news industry. I specialize in covering tennis-related news for Athletistic, a leading sports media website. My writing is highly regarded for its quick turnaround and accuracy, as well as my ability to tell compelling stories about the sport.
