Evil Beneath the Calm Surface

  Sometimes it is hard to believe just what lurks in the waters of the world.  It is easy to think of fish, crustaceans, marine mammals, corals, seaweeds and even plankton but other things dwell beneath the waters. Some of those "other things" are not so nice.  A lot of folks will argue as to what is the most dangerous sea-dwelling thing is with some claiming sharks or others saying rays.  But there is one unseen thing that can strike and take down the strongest of folks.  It has happened and is happening more often, as of late.  It is not good, folks.  In fact, warnings are being posted that fishing, swimming, boating is a "do at your own risk" pastime.  Advisories are out to take care or just steer clear of the water for the next couple of months.

  A tiny bacteria has been causing a lot of trouble for folks on the Coast. This bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus is not something you ever wish to contract.  Called a "flesh-eating" bacteria, it is found in the warm, shallow, brackish waters around the Coast.  Vibrio vulnificus enters the body through any small lesion (as small as a pin prick!) and then quickly multiplies causing the flesh to deteriorate rapidly.  The bacteria is not choosy.  Healthy folk as well as those immuno-compromised can be affected by the bacteria.  Those with preexisting illnesses are hit the hardest and the bacteria can prove to be fatal.  Most folks, who contract the bacteria, suffer blistering skin lesions that literally kill the flesh which often leads to amputation of limbs.  Oh, and it seems that humans are the only thing affected by the bacteria.  Critters do not seem to have a problem with it.

  The bacteria can also be found in the mud and shellfish, such as oysters, crabs, clams and shrimp. Again, not good.  The Coast depends on its shellfish for survival.  Seafood is our leading industry here.  The fishermen and women are all at risk but so are folks who eat the shellfish.  Eating raw oysters or handling shellfish puts one at risk.  It is advisable to be extremely careful!

  When on the pier this morning, I watched the sun rise over the calm waters.  Sitting there, with all the beauty and peace around me, I found it strange to think how that very water can be so deadly.  What lurks beneath that calm surface can wreak havoc on life.  The Gulf Coast Research Lab reports that there are around 95 cases of infections (both food borne and wound related) per year.  I have no medical background but have lived on the Bayou all of my life and my advice is during these hot months is to use commonsense.  Avoid the water if you have open wounds or are ill, do not eat raw seafood and immediately seek medical care if there is any chance that you have been infected by the bacteria. Enjoy the beauty and serenity of the water but be careful!