Jul 11, 2025
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Wellness
Vibrio infections are rare, but can be serious
Waterways are a key part of life on Delmarva — residents and visitors regularly enjoy swimming, fishing, crabbing and eating seafood. As the water warms up, Vibrio bacteria may be in those waters, too.
Not all Vibrio bacteria are dangerous, but some are. The Maryland Department of the Environment says there are 80 or more species, and levels become high when the water temperature is above 60 degrees.
Through a little after midday July 31, the Maryland Department of Health had seen 29 confirmed cases of Vibrio infection this year, with four of them being Vibrio vulnificus, said Amanda Hils, assistant director for media relations for the Maryland Department of Health. One person in Maryland has died of Vibrio vulnificus this year, which the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science says is the most serious type of Vibrio infection.
These numbers compare to 24 (five Vibrio vulnificus) cases over the same time frame in 2025 and 16 (four Vibrio vulnificus) during that time frame in 2024, Hils shared.
“This is not something we see frequently, but it can be very dangerous, so healthcare providers and the public should be aware of the risks, signs and symptoms,” said Sally Dowling, MD, CPE, chief clinical officer at TidalHealth Atlantic in Berlin, Maryland.
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It’s possible to get a Vibrio infection from swimming with open wounds or eating raw shellfish, Dr. Dowling said. She said people should avoid eating raw oysters or fish during this time of year.
“People do not need to avoid swimming in general, but if they have a fresh wound such as a scrape, cut, piercing, tattoo or surgical wound, they should avoid swimming in warm salt water, such as the ocean or bay,” Dr. Dowling said. “And if they do choose to swim, they should wash that area off immediately after with warm soap and clean water.”
Additional recommendations from the Maryland Department of Health are to wear water shoes and protective clothing when swimming, and to wear gloves and take precautions when handling raw shellfish, crabs and associated items.
Hils says some are at greater risk of infection, including people with:
- Chronic liver disease
- Diabetes
- Iron overload disease (hemochromatosis)
- A weakened immune system
Those taking stomach acid reducers are also at greater risk.
Dr. Dowling said symptoms of a Vibrio infection can include:
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Redness, swelling or pain of the skin, particularly around a wound or break
Have symptoms of a Vibrio infection? Contact your primary care practitioner and let them know about potential recent exposures, or if you need to see someone immediately, reserve a spot with TidalHealth Urgent Care. For emergencies, call 911.
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