Should the residents of Central Ohio be concerned about Vibrio infections? The answer is yes if they travel to Florida or eat raw seafood, especially oysters. Florida is a popular vacation destination for Central Ohioans, and going into Florida Ocean or Gulf water with open cuts, sores, or wounds can lead to a serious bacterial skin infection with Vibrio Vulnificus.  Eating raw seafood, especially oysters, can lead to serious and life threatening gastrointestinal infection, which is generally more known by the public than the serious skin infection. The Florida Health Department, as of June 26, 2015, reports 11 cases and 5 deaths in Florida this year due to Vibrio Vulnificus. There were 32 cases and 7 deaths reported in 2014. Several news sites have recently reported on Vibrio infections, and the Columbusmedicalnews.com has put together the links below to help in obtaining a better understanding of this matter because many Ohio residents go to Florida for vacations or for portions of the year. The individuals at increased risk include individuals who enter Florida Ocean or Gulf water with open cuts, wounds, or sores as well individuals who consume raw seafood, especially oysters. Having a weakened immune system or liver disease greatly increases the risks.

For more information:

http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/vibrio-infections/vibrio-vulnificus/index.html?utm_source=article

http://www.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2015/06/061215-fl-beaches.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6wZXEKazjM

https://www.yahoo.com/health/deadly-vibrio-vulnificus-bacteria-kills-florida-122528909562.html

Image of Vibrio Vulnificus Scanning Electron Micrograph from CDC Public Health Image Library:

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vibrio_vulnificus_01.png