How to help prevent a vibrio vulnificus infection

Doctor says thorough cleaning, quick medical treatment is key

Editor’s Note: Because of the recent media attention given to Gulf Coast beaches — and the potential for contracting vibrio vulnificus during the hot summer months — LouisianSportsman.com is again running this article featuring advice from Dr. Mary Eschete, an infectious disease specialist in Terrebonne Parish, and her tips to avoid the bacteria.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Eschete’s advice is simple and straightforward: If you suffer any type of injury while fishing, swimming or working in a saltwater or brackish environment here in South Louisiana — from being poked by a fish or jabbed with a hook — wash the wound quickly and thoroughly.

“Flush it out with copious amounts of bottled or sterile water, not ocean water,” she said. “You can also use a 1:10 bleach solution, but not pure bleach — you’ll burn yourself. I suggest lots of bottled water.

“What you’re trying to do is flush out those bacteria. Use soap and water, and lots of it.”

And if you do receive an injury that begins to swell and turn bright red, don’t wait to get medical attention.

“Get yourself to the nearest ER,” she said. “And it always seems to happen on weekends or at night. But don’t wait until you can get an appointment with your family doctor. Go to the nearest emergency room and make sure that doctor knows you’ve been in salt water.”

About Patrick Bonin 1315 Articles
Patrick Bonin is the former editor of Louisiana Sportsman magazine and LouisianaSportsman.com.