Professor Priputnevich named the risk groups for infection with the "flesh-eating bacteria."

      On August 12, 2026, 19:36 Society In the USA, Louisiana authorities warned beachgoers about the increased danger of infection from the "flesh-eating bacterium" Vibrio vulnificus. In 2026, the state recorded 9 cases of infection, 5 of which were fatal. From 2017 to 2026, Louisiana registered an average of 7 cases of infection and 1 death per year. What is Vibrio vulnificus As 360.ru reported, the chief freelance specialist in medical microbiology of the Russian Ministry of Health, corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and professor Tatyana Priputnevich explained, Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that inhabits marine and brackish waters, especially at high temperatures. It can multiply in the tissues of filter-feeding mollusks, such as oysters, making them a source of infection. This bacterium is called "flesh-eating" due to its ability to rapidly cause severe soft tissue infections, including necrotizing fasciitis (inflammation of the fascia with tissue necrosis) and sepsis (blood infection). Danger to humans Infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus is rare, but its course can be extremely severe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the USA, about 20% of infected individuals die, and in severe cases, death can occur within just 1-2 days. Infection occurs through damaged skin, for example, when coming into contact with seawater, or through the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood. In rare cases, the infection can be transmitted from person to person. Symptoms of infection include pain, swelling, redness of the skin, formation of bloody blisters, and tissue necrosis. Without timely treatment, the infection can lead to sepsis, multiple organ failure, and even death. Who is at risk The highest risk of infection and severe disease is posed to:

      - People with chronic liver diseases, especially cirrhosis.

      - Patients with immunodeficiencies.

      - Individuals with hemochromatosis (iron overload in the body).

      - Patients with diabetes mellitus.

      - People with chronic kidney diseases and other serious conditions.

      - Elderly individuals, especially men.

      - People with open wounds that come into contact with seawater.

      - Those who consume raw or undercooked seafood. Contact with the bacterium is especially dangerous for people with liver diseases, as the infection often progresses to sepsis and develops rapidly. Geography of distribution Vibrio vulnificus is found not only in the USA but also in other regions of the world. In Europe, the main risk areas are the Baltic and Black Seas, as well as certain areas of the North Sea and estuaries (places where rivers meet the sea). During hot periods, the geography of distribution expands. For example, in the summer of 2026, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recorded favorable conditions for bacterial growth even in some northern European regions. Previously, areas of increased risk were also noted off the coast of the Kaliningrad region. For healthy tourists, the risk of infection remains low, but caution should be exercised in the presence of chronic diseases or open wounds, the expert emphasized. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When republishing, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+