As record-high temperatures hit the Gulf Coast, a deadly but underreported health threat is quietly rising—an outbreak of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterium. For those living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the stakes are even higher. Here’s what to know, and how to protect yourself.*

What’s Happening Along the Gulf Coast?

So far in 2025, Florida and Louisiana have seen spikes in infections: 17 confirmed cases and 4 deaths in Louisiana, and 13 cases and 4 deaths in Florida. Isolated cases have also emerged in Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas. Experts link the rise to warming coastal waters, ideal conditions for Vibrio vulnificus, which thrives in brackish and saltwater between May and October. 

This bacterium can enter the body through cuts or open wounds or by eating contaminated raw shellfish. Infections can progress rapidly, sometimes requiring limb amputation or causing death in under 48 hours.

Why CKD Patients Are at Higher Risk

People with CKD are more vulnerable to Vibrio vulnificus for several reasons:

• Weakened immune systems: CKD and dialysis reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Wound healing challenges: CKD can delay healing, allowing bacteria to spread faster.
• Increased hospitalizations: Infections like Vibrio can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition especially dangerous for those already managing chronic illness.

According to the CDC, individuals with liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immunity are far more likely to experience severe outcomes from Vibrio infections, including septic shock and death. CKD often overlaps with these risk factors, compounding vulnerability.

How CKD Patients Can Stay Safe

If you live in or visit Gulf Coast regions, here are essential precautions:

• Avoid water exposure with open wounds: Even minor scrapes or dialysis access sites can allow bacteria entry. Cover all skin breaks with waterproof bandages.
• Don’t eat raw shellfish: Oysters and other Gulf seafood should be thoroughly cooked to kill bacteria.
• Clean all seafood carefully: Wash hands, tools, and surfaces after handling raw fish or shellfish.
• Seek help immediately: If you develop fever, swelling, redness around wounds, or gastrointestinal distress after exposure, seek urgent care. Inform them about your CKD status.

It’s also wise to speak with your nephrologist or primary care provider before travel or beach outings, especially during peak summer months.

* Additional information: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (July 2025): Preventing Vibrio Infection. https://www.cdc.gov/vibrio/prevention/index.html

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