Two people recently died after eating raw oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus in Louisiana and Florida. These cases are a tragic reminder that while oysters are a delicacy many enjoy, they can also carry risks, especially during the summer months.
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria often found in warm, coastal waters. It tends to thrive when temperatures rise, which is why the risk of exposure increases during the summer. When oysters are poorly handled and stored, and then eaten raw, they can pass it along to consumers.
Vibrio vulnificus can cause severe infection, hospitalization, and even death.
The safest step is simple: skip raw oysters during the summer months. Ordering them cooked eliminates the bacteria and makes them safe to enjoy year-round.
If you do choose to eat oysters raw:
Even though we’re far from the ocean, seafood harvested from the Gulf or Atlantic is shipped to restaurants and markets here in Denver and across Colorado. That means these national health alerts apply to us, too.
As the nation’s leading legal authority on Vibrio vulnificus cases, I’ve seen how devastating these infections can be for families who never imagined a simple meal could have such consequences.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, call or text us directly at 303-388-5304 for free advice.
