In recent years, India has been profoundly dealing with Vibrio vulnificus infections, a lethal bacterium found predominantly in marine environments. Despite the potential danger it presents, the frequency of this pathogen remains widely unreported in India.
Understanding Vibrio Vulnificus
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria notorious for causing severe infections in humans. It’s commonly contracted from consuming undercooked seafood such as oysters, which can harbor these harmful bacteria.
Transmission Routes of Vibrio Vulnificus
The bacterium has two primary transmission routes. It can be caught by eating infected raw shellfish or through exposing open wounds to contaminated waters. The bacterium spreads through various marine organisms including fish like eel, derbio, tilapia, trout, and shrimp. The initial case in marine organisms was recorded in Japanese eel in 1975 while the first human infection case was reported in 1976 in the US.
Vibrio Vulnificus and its Arrival in India
The pathogen made its way to Spain through imported eels in 1985. It wasn’t until 2018 that India documented an outbreak of V. vulnificus in a Tilapia fish farm in Kerala. Known to originate from Africa and West Asia, Tilapia is one of the most globally traded food fishes.
Symptoms of Vibrio Vulnificus Infection
Individuals infected with V. vulnificus exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. In more severe cases, the bacteria can cause flesh-eating diseases that can lead to fatality within days.
Optimal Conditions for Vibrio Vulnificus in India
This bacterium thrives in warm waters with temperatures above 20°C. With an average sea surface temperature of 28°C, India’s marine environment provides a perfect habitat. Furthermore, climate change factors such as increased rainfall and decreased coastal salinity further support the growth of V. vulnificus.
Outcomes of Vibrio Vulnificus Infections
V. vulnificus infections can lead to a high mortality rate, ranging from 15% to 50%, even if diagnosed and treated promptly. People suffering from chronic diseases like liver disease, cancer, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes are at a higher risk. Infections may result in limb amputations, making them a significant health concern.
Vibrio Vulnificus: The Global Spread
Healthcare professionals worldwide need to be aware of V. vulnificus risks and ensure proper testing for patients exhibiting relevant symptoms.
Steps to Mitigate Vibrio Vulnificus Risk
Researchers globally are now creating risk-warning tools that employ satellite-based sensors to monitor sea surface temperature and phytoplankton levels, which are linked with increased V. vulnificus infections.
Seasonal Consumption Practices in Japan
To reduce infection risk, Japan has adopted a practice of consuming bivalves, such as oysters and mussels, only in winter when bacteria levels are low. This practice significantly reduces the risk of infection and is a lesson other countries could learn from.
