Vibriosis

Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm waters, and can infect people when a cut or scrape on the skin is exposed to seawater, or when raw shellfish, especially oysters, are eaten. When Vibrio bacteria enter the bloodstream through an opening in the skin, vibriosis can result, causing fever and chills, blistering skin lesions, and possibly death.

Reduce your risk of vibriosis by following these precautions:

• Don’t eat raw or undercooked oysters or other shellfish. Cook them before eating.
• Always wash your hands with soap and water after handing raw shellfish.
• Avoid contaminating cooked shellfish with raw shellfish and its juices.
• Stay out of brackish or salt water if you have a wound (including cuts and scrapes), or cover your wound with a waterproof bandage if there’s a possibility it could come into contact with brackish or salt water, raw seafood or raw seafood juices.

More about Vibrio, risks, and precautions »

At greater risk: You may be more likely to get an infection or severe complications if you have a chronic disease or receive immune-suppressing therapy for the treatment of disease.

Harmful Algae

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has issued water contact warnings for Mississippi beaches due to a blue-green Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in coast waters. MDEQ advises people and pets to avoid contact with beach water, including swimming or wading, to prevent exposure to harmful blue-green algae. HAB can cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. MDEQ advises the public not to eat fish or any other seafood taken from affected areas, and for those exposed to HAB to wash with soap and water. The closures refer to water contact only and do not prohibit use of the sand portion of a beach.

Mississippi beach closures and warnings »