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The count of individuals suffering from Vibrio vulnificus septicemia, a condition with a significant mortality rate, has risen sharply lately. This is linked to heightened activity of the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria caused by the extreme heat. Officials have advised people to be careful when eating raw shellfish.

As per the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 16th, only 1 to 2 cases were recorded between May and July, but 14 cases were reported in August alone.

Vibrio vulnificus septicemia occurs when individuals eat raw shellfish that has been infected with the bacteria or when there is direct exposure of open wounds to seawater that contains the pathogen.

The time between exposure and the start of symptoms is between 12 and 72 hours. Symptoms involve sudden high temperature, shivering, low blood pressure, and nausea. Within a day after symptoms begin, skin conditions like rashes, swelling, and bleeding blisters might develop on the legs, and in serious cases, it can be fatal. The illness does not spread from person to person.

Instances of Vibrio vulnificus septicemia occur mainly between August and October, as sea water temperatures increase each year.

This year, a total of 19 patients have been reported, including 8 deaths. All the deceased individuals were considered high-risk, having pre-existing conditions like liver disease, cancer, or diabetes.

In comparison to the same period in 2024 (21 cases), this year’s total has decreased by 9.5%. Nevertheless, the death rate is still significant at 42.1%. In the previous year, both the number of cases and fatalities reached their peak in September, with infections persisting into November and December as temperatures fell.

To avoid Vibrio vulnificus septicemia, shellfish need to be kept at temperatures under 5 degrees Celsius and cooked to a temperature higher than 85 degrees Celsius prior to eating. It is recommended to use gloves when dealing with shellfish, and any cutting boards and knives used during preparation should be sanitized afterwards.

Furthermore, people with open wounds need to stay away from seawater. In case of exposure, the affected area must be cleaned using fresh water and soap.

Head of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, Lim Seung-gwan, stated, “It is essential to refrain from eating raw shellfish, crabs, shrimp, and similar items to prevent Vibrio vulnificus septicemia. Individuals in high-risk categories, especially those with pre-existing health issues such as liver disease or diabetes, should strictly follow the recommended preventive measures.”