A new study published in the journal Scientific Reports reveals that the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, which can be deadly to humans and causes flesh-eating infections, is spreading northward along the East Coast of the United States.

The main reason for this spread is the increase in ocean temperatures caused by climate change.

This bacteria loves warm and brackish water, especially in areas where rivers and streams meet the sea, such as estuaries and bays. Although the infections caused by this bacteria are still rare, the number of cases has increased eightfold between 1988 and 2018, the International Business Times reports.

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Vibrio vulnificus loves warm and brackish water, especially in areas where rivers and streams meet the sea, such as estuaries and bays.

According to Iain Lake, a professor of environmental sciences at the University of East Anglia in the UK and senior author of the study, the rising incidence of this bacterial infection can be seen as a warning sign of climate change, as it is highly sensitive to changes in the environment.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus is a type of Vibrio bacteria that lives in warm, brackish water, particularly in bays, estuaries, and places where rivers and streams meet the sea. This flesh-eating variety can cause necrotizing fasciitis if it enters the body through a cut or wound, which means that the flesh around the infection site dies. Vulnificus comes from the Latin word "to wound."

About 100 people each year are infected and require medical treatment, the CDC reports, but it is believed that a far greater number of people have mild infections that their bodies can fight off. Those who become infected may need intensive care, and about ten percent need tissue removal or limb amputations, with approximately one in five cases resulting in death. Fatalities have been reported within 48 hours of exposure.

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About 100 people each year are infected by Vibrio vulnificus and require treatment.

How does Vibrio vulnificus spread?

Studies show, increasing ocean temperatures caused by climate change are leading to the spread of bacteria that can cause infections. These infections are moving northward along the East Coast of the United States, at a pace of approximately 30 miles each year. The Scientific Reports study shows that these infections used to be almost exclusively concentrated in the southern United States, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico. Infections in areas north of Georgia were rare in the late 1980s, but by 2018, they were being regularly reported as far north as Philadelphia.

If the warming of waters continues, and the bacteria reaches New York State in the coming decades, cases of these infections could double again. The rising ocean temperatures allow these bacteria to thrive in warm, brackish water, which is typically found in bays, estuaries, and areas where rivers and streams meet the sea. The increased incidence of these infections can be used as a barometer of climate change, as it is very sensitive to environmental changes.

The infections caused by these bacteria are still relatively rare, but can be severe, with about one in five infected people dying from the infection. Those who become infected may require intensive care, and some may even require surgical tissue removal or amputations.

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Vibrio vulnificus cases are now regularly reported as far north as Philadelphia.

How can you protect yourself from Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus thrives in brackish waters found in bays, inlets, and estuaries, which are slightly less salty than the open ocean. It's important to note that the study doesn't suggest avoiding the beach, but rather to be aware of the risks. People who are young and healthy are less susceptible to infection, whereas those who are older, particularly men, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk, the FDA reports. It's especially important for older individuals and those with compromised immune systems to take precautions.

The CDC recommends that people wash wounds and cuts thoroughly with soap and water if they have come into contact with saltwater, and also if they come into contact with raw seafood. These precautions can help reduce the risk of infection. It's important to seek medical attention promptly if an infection is suspected, especially if symptoms such as fever, chills, or severe pain develop after exposure to saltwater or raw seafood.

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Vibrio vulnificus infections can be caused by exposure to saltwater or raw seafood.

What should you do if you think you’ve been exposed to the bacteria?

It's crucial to take prompt action if you have a cut or wound that appears to be getting infected and you have recently spent time in the ocean or semi-salty bays. Wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention right away.

Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, warns that individuals who work in seawater are more likely to suffer from the type of wound contamination that can put them at risk.

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People who work around saltwater are more likely to be infected by Vibrio vulnificus.

The researchers stress that people should not be afraid, but rather informed and aware. It's essential to take precautions to minimize your chances of exposure to Vibrio vulnificus, such as avoiding contact with raw seafood and being aware of any open wounds or cuts when entering saltwater or brackish areas. By being mindful and taking quick action if you notice any signs of infection, you can protect yourself against the potential dangers of Vibrio vulnificus.