Vibrio season is here: How can you avoid the flesh-eating bacterial infection?

(NEXSTAR) – Vibriosis, an infection caused by a dozen types of vibrio bacteria that affects approximately 80,000 people per year, is expected to rise in the coming months.

Vibrio bacteria live in coastal waters and their numbers multiply starting in May, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bacteria can survive in salt water and brackish water (a mix of salt and fresh water).

People most commonly get infected by eating shellfish, like oysters, but you can also be infected through contact if swimming with an open wound.

Some vibrio infections can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a serious form of bacterial infection commonly referred to as “flesh-eating” disease. People who get this serious form of vibrio infection may need intensive care or limb amputation. It progresses rapidly, and 1 in 5 people........

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