MCHD urges residents to take steps to prevent Vibriosis 3-24-26

March 24, 2026

MCHD urges residents to take steps to prevent Vibriosis

MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department is encouraging residents to take precautions to prevent vibriosis, a potentially serious bacterial infection associated with exposure to certain coastal waters and consumption of contaminated seafood.

During 2025, a total of 16 cases of vibriosis were reported to the Mobile County Health Department. These cases were investigated by MCHD’s Infectious Disease and Outbreaks Division.

Some reported cases involved injuries exposed to waters connected to the Gulf. However, most cases were linked to eating undercooked food contaminated with Vibrio bacteria.

Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in certain coastal waters and are found in higher concentrations from May through October, when water temperatures are warmer. In some areas, however, the bacteria may be present year-round.

People can become ill when Vibrio bacteria enter the body through an open wound or when contaminated seafood is eaten. To reduce the risk of infection, the Mobile County Health Department recommends the following precautions:

• Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters.
• Avoid exposing open wounds, cuts, or scrapes to salt water or brackish water.

If you receive a cut while in the water, wash the wound immediately with soap and fresh water. Seek medical attention promptly if the wound is deep or shows signs of infection, including redness, pain, or swelling.

The Alabama Department of Public Health has issued flyer — Prevention and Control Measures: Vibriosis (non-Cholera causing species — to help students, parents, patients, and community members. Please visit https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/infectiousdiseases/assets/vibrio_flyer.pdf to learn more.

Of the more than 70 species of Vibrio, about a dozen can cause human illness, known as vibriosis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 80,000 people in the United States become sick with vibriosis each year, and about 100 individuals die from the infection.

“Prevention is the best defense against vibriosis,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “By avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish and protecting open wounds from coastal waters, residents can reduce their risk and help keep themselves and their families safe.”