A San Jose woman, Laura Barajas, has tragically become a quadruple amputee after contracting a severe bacterial infection that is believed to have originated from undercooked fish she consumed in July. The infection was identified as Vibrio vulnificus, often referred to as the “flesh-eating bacteria.” Her story highlights the dangers associated with this bacterium, which has led to significant health challenges for her.
Laura Barajas fell seriously ill shortly after eating tilapia she had purchased from a local market. She was quickly diagnosed with Vibrio vulnificus, a particularly virulent bacterium that can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection that leads to the death of flesh around an open wound. Barajas’s condition deteriorated rapidly, requiring intensive medical intervention.
Anna Messina, a friend of Barajas, shared the distressing details of her condition. “She almost lost her life. She was on a respirator, put into a medically induced coma. Her fingers were black, her feet were black, her bottom lip was black. She had complete sepsis, and her kidneys were failing,” Messina explained.
After spending a month in the hospital, Barajas faced a devastating reality. In order to save her life, all four of her limbs had to be amputated. This traumatic outcome serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of Vibrio vulnificus infections.
Vibrio bacteria are typically contracted through the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood. However, the CDC warns that any open wound, including cuts, recent piercings, or tattoos, coming into contact with the bacteria can also lead to infection.
The primary treatment for necrotizing fasciitis caused by Vibrio vulnificus involves early and aggressive surgical exploration and debridement of necrotic tissue. In Laura Barajas’s case, this meant the amputation of all her limbs.
The CDC recently issued an emergency alert urging healthcare providers to consider Vibrio as a potential cause of infections. Warming sea waters have created conditions conducive to the growth of this bacteria, leading to increased cases.
Vibrio vulnificus infections can be life-threatening, with a high mortality rate. The CDC reports that one in five people with this infection die, sometimes within just 1-2 days of becoming ill.
This tragic case follows several other recent incidents of Vibrio vulnificus infections in different parts of the United States, emphasizing the importance of caution when consuming raw or undercooked seafood and maintaining proper wound care.
