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FLORIDA - As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, the Florida Health Department is urging residents to avoid floodwaters due to the potential presence of Vibrio, a flesh-eating bacteria.
Vibrio bacteria naturally occur in warm coastal waters and can cause illness if they enter open wounds.
Heavy rainfall and flooding, such as what's expected from Milton, can increase the concentration of these bacteria in floodwater.
Individuals with compromised immune systems, liver disease, or open wounds are at a higher risk of contracting Vibrio vulnificus, a potentially life-threatening infection.
According to a press release from the Florida Health Department:
What You Need to Know
- Risk Factors: Individuals who have compromised immune systems, liver disease, or open wounds are at higher risk for Vibrio vulnificus.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, chills, fast or high heart rate, confusion, or disorientation.
- When to Seek Medical Attention: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms associated with Vibrio vulnificus, especially after exposure to floodwaters.
- Safety Precautions:
- Avoid swimming or wading in floodwaters, standing water, sea water, and brackish water, if possible.
- Cover open cuts or wounds with waterproof bandages if they could come in contact with floodwaters, standing water, sea water, or brackish water.
- Wash skin and any open cuts or wounds thoroughly with soap and clean water after any contact with floodwaters.
For more information on storm preparedness and flood water safety, visit FloridaDisaster.org or call the State Assistance Information Line at 1-800-342-3557.