Man Dies from Rare Infection after Consuming Raw Shellfish, Galveston County Officials Warn
Galveston County officials are issuing a warning to the public regarding the consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish after a man tragically passed away from a rare infection. The victim, a man between the ages of 30 and 40, reportedly consumed raw oysters and had pre-existing health conditions.
The Galveston County Health District revealed that the cause of the man’s death was due to Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria commonly found in warm coastal waters. This bacterium can infect individuals through the consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Additionally, individuals can also contract the infection through an open wound.
This year has seen an increase in Vibrio vulnificus infections, which the health department attributes to the unusually warm ocean temperatures. However, they emphasized that such infections are generally rare and often occur in individuals with underlying health conditions such as liver disease, immunosuppression, or diabetes.
Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection may include diarrhea, stomach cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, cellulitis, and blistering lesions. To mitigate the risks associated with this infection, individuals with immune suppression, liver disease, or diabetes are strongly advised to refrain from consuming raw shellfish and swimming in coastal waters.
If you have consumed undercooked shellfish or have recently visited coastal areas and experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, health officials strongly recommend seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional.
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