Flesh-eating bacteria cause rapid limb loss

A 74-year-old man in Florida experienced a severe infection from flesh-eating bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, after a cut on his leg exposed him to contaminated waters. Within three days, his limbs showed signs of rapid decay, including discoloration and crackling sounds, necessitating amputation of his leg and extensive skin grafting for his arm. This case highlights the increasing threat of V. vulnificus due to climate change, which is causing warmer waters and expanding the bacteria's geographic range. Medical experts emphasize the importance of thoroughly cooking seafood and protecting open wounds from brackish water.