Publication Abstract

Vibrio alginolyticus-associated wound infection acquired in British waters

G. D. Reilly, C. A. Reilly, E .G. Smith and C. Baker-Austin

Gram-negative bacteria of the genus Vibrio are commonly found in coastal and estuarine waters in Europe. Wound infections associated with the species Vibrio alginolyticus are extremely rare, and only three previous cases have been reported in the UK in the last 35 years. Here we report a case from Guernsey in the Channel Islands, of V. alginolyticus infection occurring after sea bathing and application of a natural seaweed dressing to a pre-existing leg wound. Microbiological investigation confirmed the Vibrio to be present in the wound and was subsequently cultured from both the local seawater and the species of seaweed used. The risks of seabathing as a treatment for wounds and the use of natural seaweed as a dressing are subsequently discussed.

Reference:

G. D. Reilly, C. A. Reilly, E .G. Smith and C. Baker-Austin (2011) Vibrio alginolyticus-associated wound infection acquired in British waters. Eurosurveillance, 16: 42, 10-11