Vibrio vulnificus: the dangers of the bacteria that have led to limb amputation

The story of Laura Barajas, a 40-year-old American who had to have her arms and legs amputated after contracting a infectionserious bacterial when eating undercooked fish, he brought to light the dangerousness of the bacteria Vibrio vulnificus.

The incident occurred in California, United States, and left the woman in a coma, with her limbs severely affected by a widespread infection and kidney failure.

The only alternative to save his life was the amputation of his arms and legs, an extreme measure given the lethality of this bacteria.

Vibrio vulnificus: a deadly threat

It is a rod-shaped bacterium belonging to the family Vibrionaceae. It is considered a deadly human pathogen and is associated with the majority of deaths worldwide related to seafood consumption.

Laura Barajas lost all four limbs due to eating undercooked fish contaminated with the bacteria. (Image: GoFundMe/Reproduction)

According to a 2017 study, signed by researchers from China, Malaysia and Taiwan, the microorganism caused 95 reported cases, with 85 hospitalizations and 35 deaths per year in countries such as:

• Denmark;

• Sweden;

• Germany;

• Spain;

• Türkiye;

• Netherlands;

• Belgium;

• Israel;

• Italy;

• Korea;

• Japan;

• Taiwan;

• India;

• Thailand;

• Australia;

• Brazil.

Symptoms, severity and prevention

Symptoms of infection by Vibrio vulnificus include:

• Vesicular injuries;

• Necrosis;

• Fever;

• Chills;

• Altered mental state;

• Diarrhea;

• Abdominal cramps;

• Nausea;

• Vomiting.

Contamination can progress to primary septicemia (septic shock), a generalized infection that causes organ failure and can be fatal. A Vibrio vulnificus is transmitted through eating raw or undercooked seafood.

Furthermore, cross-contamination during food preparation and inadequate hygiene can also infect people.

The lack of concrete data on the frequency of the bacteria in Brazil highlights the importance of awareness about safe handling of seafood and the need to cook such foods appropriately.

A Vibrio vulnificus It has been dubbed “flesh-eating bacteria” by the media due to its ability to degrade human skin cells.

Recent cases, such as those related to Hurricane Ian in Florida, highlight the importance of being aware of the risks associated with this microorganism.

In short, it is a dangerous bacteria capable of causing serious and even fatal infections if not treated quickly.

Raising awareness about how to avoid contamination and safe consumption of Seafood are essential to prevent contamination by this deadly bacteria.