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The Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) reports as of July 23, there have been a total of four cases of vibriosis reported for the year 2022.

Image/Robert Herriman

Three out of four cases reported injuries that were exposed to waters connected to the Gulf of Mexico.

Vibrio bacteria naturally live in certain coastal waters and are present in higher concentrations between May and October when water temperatures are warmer. However, the bacteria can be present throughout the year in some areas. While Vibrio bacteria can enter the body through a break in the skin, it can also come from consuming contaminated seafood.

  • Avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, cooking foods to recommended temperatures.
  • Avoiding exposure of open wounds (including cuts and scrapes) to salt and brackish waters. If a person gets a cut while in the water, immediately wash the wound with soap and fresh water. If the wound shows any signs of infection (redness, pain, and/or swelling) or if the cut is deep, seek medical attention immediately

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Of the more than 70 species of Vibrio that exist, about a dozen can cause human illness — known as vibriosis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that each year in the United States 80,000 individuals become sick with vibriosis, and 100 people die from their infection.
During 2021, there were four cases of vibriosis reported to MCHD.