Vibrio vulnificus bacterium: five died in the USA – the danger is recognized in Israel

Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium found naturally in the marine environment and in warm coastal waters. Its concentration increases especially in the hot months, usually between May and October. Infection can occur when water containing the bacteria comes into contact with a cut, abrasion or open wound, and also after eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters.

The violent bacteria is no stranger to Israel either. The Israeli Ministry of Health defines it as a bacterium found naturally in seawater and beaches as well as in ponds for fish farming, and mainly in tilapia fish, also known in Israel as Musht. The infection can occur during handling of the fish, when a fin, bone or other part of the fish wounds the skin and allows the bacteria to enter the body.

Just two years ago, the Ministry of Health in Israel published another announcement following a case in which a fish farmer in the Valley of the Springs became infected with Vibrio vulnificus after being stung by a tilapia fish during his work. The case illustrated that even a stabbing that initially seems marginal can in rare cases lead to a significant infection.

The risk receives special attention in Israel also around the holidays, when the demand for fish increases and many families prepare it at home. The Ministry of Health previously issued a special warning for Rosh Hashanah against Vibrio vulnificus while handling raw fish. In the guidelines, it was recommended to purchase fish from authorized places and make sure that the fish has already been cleaned of fins, scales and gills. People with chronic diseases, a weakened immune system or open wounds on their hands were advised to avoid direct contact with fish.

The danger is not that the squeal itself is necessarily “infected”. The bacterium may be found on the fish and in the water environment where it grows, and the scale, fin or bone may create the wound through which the bacterium penetrates the skin. Because of this, even a tiny wound while cleaning a fish can be significant, especially for those who suffer from underlying diseases. The Ministry of Health lists among the risk groups people with chronic diseases and a weakened immune system.

Even in the case of exposure to sea water, the main recommendation is not to enter the water with an open wound. If there was still exposure, wash the area thoroughly. Anyone who subsequently notices an expanding redness, swelling, local heat, significant pain or a change in skin color is asked to seek medical attention quickly and note that the wound was exposed to seawater or fish. In the case of severe infection, the speed of diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics and, if necessary, surgery to remove infected tissue may be critical.