Vibrio vulnificus populations are increasing as water temperatures rise
Dr. Jay Grimes, Professor of Marine Microbiology at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs said any wound exposed to warm salt water should be treated immediately and recommends these steps:
1. Flush out wound with sterile water. Use bottled water if you are on a boat. Do not use seawater.
2. Wash the wound with soap and water.
3. Flush and clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide. Disinfect with a generous application of Betadine. Hydrogen peroxide and Betadine are available at all drug stores and should be included as part of your first aid kit on any boat.
4. If your wound starts to swell and turn bright red, go immediately to the closest emergency room. Inform the attending physician about the injury and that it was exposed to saltwater. Tell the ER physician you suspect vibrio infection.
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