Gwangyang-si Launches Campaign to Prevent Vibrio Sepsis

Published 03 May.2022 13:47(KST)

Caution Needed for Citizens with Diseases Such as Liver Conditions

Gwangyang-si Launches Campaign to Prevent Vibrio Sepsis

[Asia Economy Nam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Heo Seonsik] Following the occurrence of the nation's first Vibrio vulnificus septicemia patient in Gyeonggi-do on April 26 this year, the Gwangyang City Public Health Center announced that cases of Vibrio vulnificus septicemia mainly occur annually from May to October when seawater temperatures rise, and that the distribution of cases is nationwide regardless of coastal or inland areas. They have started promoting prevention and precautionary measures.

Vibrio vulnificus septicemia is contracted by eating raw or undercooked seafood or when wounded skin comes into contact with seawater.

Symptoms include acute fever, chills, low blood pressure, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Characteristic skin lesions mainly appear on the lower limbs within 24 hours after symptom onset.

If these symptoms appear, it is essential to promptly visit a medical institution and receive immediate treatment.

To prevent Vibrio vulnificus septicemia, it is advised to avoid consuming raw seafood, wash seafood thoroughly with running tap water, and cook it well before consumption. People with wounds should avoid entering seawater, and if exposed to seawater, the affected area should be washed with clean water and soap.

In particular, high-risk groups such as patients with liver diseases (chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer), alcoholics, and those with underlying conditions like diabetes have a higher incidence of Vibrio vulnificus septicemia and a mortality rate that can reach up to 50%, so it is crucial to strictly follow prevention guidelines.

Oh Seungtaek, Director of Food Hygiene Division, stated, “The seawater temperature in Gwangyang City has recorded above 18℃ (based on Mangdeok, Gwangyeong, and Chonam seawater), raising concerns about the occurrence of Vibrio vulnificus septicemia,” and added, “We ask for the citizens’ special attention.”