Steve Wilson, 50, of Mississippi, is battling a severe infection of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, after a fishing trip on the Gulf of Mexico. Wilson and his wife, Amanda, who is a licensed practical nurse, are meticulous about preventing exposure to Vibrio, a bacteria commonly found in warm, brackish coastal waters. They avoid swimming in the Gulf and take precautions to check for open wounds before entering the water.
Despite their diligence, Wilson developed intense pain and swelling near his right ankle the morning after their fishing excursion on Saturday. His wife suspected Vibrio infection and rushed him to Slidell Memorial Hospital. During the drive, Wilson developed a fever of 103.6 degrees Fahrenheit and became septic.
At the hospital, doctors confirmed the bacteria was actively consuming flesh in his foot and leg. Wilson underwent surgery and is receiving antibiotics, but remains in intensive care. His condition took a severe turn when he experienced irregular heart rhythm and a dangerous pressure buildup in his muscles, a condition known as compartment syndrome. Surgeons made additional incisions to relieve the pressure and allow the infection to drain, which led to an immediate decrease in swelling and a return of color to his foot.
While the exact entry point of the bacteria is unconfirmed, Amanda Wilson believes a horsefly bite may have been the vector. She recalled her husband pausing to apply bug spray for bites on his legs before beginning to fish. It is possible the bacteria entered his system through this bite. Other potential sources include splashing fish blood or recent flooding that may have introduced brackish water into the Jourdan River, where the couple spent time cooling off.
Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare but can be deadly, with one in five individuals developing a severe infection succumbing to it, often within 48 hours. Health officials note that Vibrio cases typically peak between May and October due to warmer water temperatures and increased recreational activity. In Mississippi, seven Vibrio cases have been reported so far this year, with one involving Vibrio vulnificus. Alabama has reported a dozen Vibrio infections, three of which were Vibrio vulnificus. Louisiana has recorded five Vibrio vulnificus cases this year, all resulting in hospitalizations and two fatalities. Health advisories recommend avoiding raw oysters and undercooked shellfish, keeping wounds covered when in brackish water, and wearing gloves when handling seafood. Anyone with exposed wounds should wash them with soap and clean water and seek immediate medical attention if signs of infection appear.