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Experts warn to avoid the ocean if you have an open wound.
While folk wisdom may claim that salt water can help heal cuts or abrasions, many experts say to avoid swimming if you’ve got an open wound. In particular, the VDH has issued a warning against swimming when injured due to the spread of Vibrio bacteria, which can cause serious soft-tissue skin infections.
Harmful microorganisms are found in “lakes, rivers, along the coast, and in other bodies of water,” Virginia’s health officials warn. They urge particular caution in “brackish and warm sea water,” where Vibrio spreads naturally.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb
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Cases are at their peak right now.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that every year in the U.S., roughly 80,000 people contract vibriosis, the disease spread by Vibrio bacteria. On average, one hundred people die from Vibrio-related infections each year, the health authority warns.
The CDC also notes that the majority of infections occur between May and October, when water temperatures rise—meaning that right now, cases are at their annual peak.
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People with compromised immune systems tend to suffer worse outcomes.
While anyone can contract a vibriosis infection from contaminated water, certain underlying conditions can elevate your risk, the VDH cautions. “Persons with low immune systems, cancer, diabetes, liver disease, and other chronic conditions” are at a higher risk of the bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing complications or even death.
You can also contract vibriosis from eating undercooked seafood.
In addition to the risk of contracting vibriosis while swimming, the VDH also warns that you can become infected by eating raw or undercooked seafood—especially oysters. “Because oysters feed by filtering water, bacteria can concentrate in their tissues,” the CDC explains. Those with the underlying conditions listed above should be particularly cautious about their seafood selection. “Most Vibrio infections from oysters result in only diarrhea and vomiting. However, some infections, such as those caused by Vibrio vulnificus, can cause more severe illness, including bloodstream infections and severe blistering skin lesions,” the CDC warns. The health authority notes that some infections require intensive care or limb amputations, and between 15 and 30 percent of cases involving the V. vulnificus strain are fatal. If you notice redness, swelling, or pain at the site of a wound after swimming, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention, including treatment with antibiotics, can improve survival rates and speed up recovery. RELATED: Never Go in a Lake If You See This One Thing, Local Officials Warn.
