Tanya Dutt

Ayushman Bharat's Senior Citizens Health Insurance: ₹5 Lakh Health Coverage For Seniors Aged 70+- Know All About It

Ayushman Bharat Health insurance

The Union Government has introduced a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), which now extends health coverage to all citizens aged 70 and above. This monumental decision will provide much-needed relief to an additional 6 crore senior citizens from 4.5 crore families across India.

Under the new provisions, individuals in this age group, irrespective of income or socio-economic status, will receive a health insurance cover of ₹5 lakh per family, aimed at easing the financial burden of healthcare expenses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while chairing the Union Cabinet meeting, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating that it is a step towards ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for India's ageing population. "We are committed to ensuring top-quality healthcare for every Indian," the Prime Minister posted on X (formerly Twitter).

The scheme, which previously provided health cover to the bottom 40% of India's population based on income criteria, now guarantees health coverage for all senior citizens above 70, including those already benefiting from other government insurance schemes such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS). 

Those enrolled in private health insurance policies or the Employees' State Insurance Scheme (ESI) are also eligible for AB PM-JAY, offering a more inclusive approach to elderly healthcare.

<h2>Key Features of the Expanded AB PM-JAY Scheme</h2>

The Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, which is already the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, will now reach an even broader population. With this expansion, each senior citizen aged 70 and above will be issued a distinct health card, ensuring they can easily access the benefits without any financial constraints. Some of the key highlights include:

<ul><li>Universal Coverage for Seniors: Every senior citizen aged 70 and above, regardless of income or social standing, will receive ₹5 lakh health coverage.</li><li>Top-Up Cover: For families already enrolled under AB PM-JAY, senior members will get an additional top-up cover of ₹5 lakh annually, which is exclusively for their use. This means they will not have to share the coverage with other family members under 70 years of age.</li><li>Flexibility with Existing Schemes: Individuals already covered under public health schemes like CGHS, ECHS, or Ayushman CAPF can either continue with their current insurance or opt for AB PM-JAY, offering flexibility and choice.</li><li>Inclusive of Private Insurance Holders: Even senior citizens with private health insurance will be eligible for this scheme, providing them with dual protection if they choose to avail of both options.</li></ul>

<h2>Financial Implications and State Contributions</h2>

The initial cost to roll out this expanded health coverage is estimated at ₹3,437 crore. State governments will bear 40% of the expenses, while the Central Government will contribute the remaining 60%. However, for hilly and northeastern states, the Centre will fund 90% of the costs, ensuring that these regions, often with lower healthcare access, are adequately supported.

As the scheme unfolds, experts anticipate that the demand for senior citizen enrolment will rise, potentially increasing the overall cost of the program. This is because healthcare for elderly individuals typically incurs higher expenses due to the increased risk of chronic diseases and medical needs associated with ageing.

India's senior population is set to rise significantly in the coming decades. According to the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), the percentage of individuals aged 60 and above is projected to increase from 8.6% in 2011 to 19.5% by 2050. This means that the population of senior citizens will triple from 103 million in 2011 to 319 million by 2050. 

The expansion of AB PM-JAY is a timely intervention to cater to this demographic shift, ensuring that elderly citizens are not left vulnerable to escalating healthcare costs.

As families in India transition to more nuclear structures, the financial burden on elderly members can become increasingly difficult to manage. This expansion of the AB PM-JAY scheme offers crucial social security, particularly for senior citizens who may not have the same level of familial or financial support. 

With a dedicated top-up for senior citizens, the scheme ensures they receive the medical attention they need without sharing resources with younger family members.

By lifting income-based restrictions, the government is broadening the scope of its health policies, allowing more people to benefit from the scheme. The inclusion of senior citizens from all socio-economic backgrounds reinforces the government’s commitment to universal healthcare and offers peace of mind to millions of elderly Indians. 

Furthermore, the move aligns with the government's vision of a more inclusive healthcare system, addressing the unique needs of India’s growing elderly population.

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The Union Government has introduced a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), which now extends health coverage to all citizens aged 70 and above. This monumental decision will provide much-needed relief to an additional 6 crore senior citizens from 4.5 crore families across India. Under the new provisions, individuals in this age group, irrespective of income or socio-economic status, will receive a health insurance cover of ₹5 lakh per family, aimed at easing the financial burden of healthcare expenses.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while chairing the Union Cabinet meeting, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating that it is a step towards ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for India's ageing population. "We are committed to ensuring top-quality healthcare for every Indian," the Prime Minister posted on X (formerly Twitter).The scheme, which previously provided health cover to the bottom 40% of India's population based on income criteria, now guarantees health coverage for all senior citizens above 70, including those already benefiting from other government insurance schemes such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS). Those enrolled in private health insurance policies or the Employees' State Insurance Scheme (ESI) are also eligible for AB PM-JAY, offering a more inclusive approach to elderly healthcare.Key Features of the Expanded AB PM-JAY SchemeThe Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, which is already the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, will now reach an even broader population. With this expansion, each senior citizen aged 70 and above will be issued a distinct health card, ensuring they can easily access the benefits without any financial constraints. Some of the key highlights include:Universal Coverage for Seniors: Every senior citizen aged 70 and above, regardless of income or social standing, will receive ₹5 lakh health coverage.Top-Up Cover: For families already enrolled under AB PM-JAY, senior members will get an additional top-up cover of ₹5 lakh annually, which is exclusively for their use. This means they will not have to share the coverage with other family members under 70 years of age.Flexibility with Existing Schemes: Individuals already covered under public health schemes like CGHS, ECHS, or Ayushman CAPF can either continue with their current insurance or opt for AB PM-JAY, offering flexibility and choice.Inclusive of Private Insurance Holders: Even senior citizens with private health insurance will be eligible for this scheme, providing them with dual protection if they choose to avail of both options.Financial Implications and State ContributionsThe initial cost to roll out this expanded health coverage is estimated at ₹3,437 crore. State governments will bear 40% of the expenses, while the Central Government will contribute the remaining 60%. However, for hilly and northeastern states, the Centre will fund 90% of the costs, ensuring that these regions, often with lower healthcare access, are adequately supported.As the scheme unfolds, experts anticipate that the demand for senior citizen enrolment will rise, potentially increasing the overall cost of the program. This is because healthcare for elderly individuals typically incurs higher expenses due to the increased risk of chronic diseases and medical needs associated with ageing.India's senior population is set to rise significantly in the coming decades. According to the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), the percentage of individuals aged 60 and above is projected to increase from 8.6% in 2011 to 19.5% by 2050. This means that the population of senior citizens will triple from 103 million in 2011 to 319 million by 2050. The expansion of AB PM-JAY is a timely intervention to cater to this demographic shift, ensuring that elderly citizens are not left vulnerable to escalating healthcare costs.As families in India transition to more nuclear structures, the financial burden on elderly members can become increasingly difficult to manage. This expansion of the AB PM-JAY scheme offers crucial social security, particularly for senior citizens who may not have the same level of familial or financial support. With a dedicated top-up for senior citizens, the scheme ensures they receive the medical attention they need without sharing resources with younger family members.By lifting income-based restrictions, the government is broadening the scope of its health policies, allowing more people to benefit from the scheme. The inclusion of senior citizens from all socio-economic backgrounds reinforces the government’s commitment to universal healthcare and offers peace of mind to millions of elderly Indians. Furthermore, the move aligns with the government's vision of a more inclusive healthcare system, addressing the unique needs of India’s growing elderly population.

ayushman bharat's senior citizens health insurance: ₹5 lakh health coverage for seniors aged 70+- know all about it

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India Sends 300,000 Measles Vaccines To Bolivia Amid Rapidly Growing Disease Outbreak

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Bolivia is in the middle of a public health emergency. Measles—once thought to be close to eradication in many parts of the world—has returned, with 60 confirmed cases sparking alarm across the country. In response, India dispatched 300,000 doses of the combined Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccine, providing a much-needed boost to Bolivia's immunization drive.

This timely shipment comes as the South American country scrambles to contain the outbreak. The Bolivian government has declared a National Health Emergency, activated emergency protocols, and called on local governments and global partners to ramp up vaccination efforts.

Measles is often underestimated, especially in countries where immunization coverage is high. But here’s the reality: measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to humans. It can cause severe complications—pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death—especially in children under five or those with malnutrition.

Bolivia's Health Minister Maria Renee Castro made it clear: the outbreak could spiral if parents don’t act. “It is essential that parents get their children vaccinated,” she said. Though the country has half a million doses in stock, coverage is falling short. And that’s the bigger issue.

<h2>What Triggered The Measles Outbreak In Bolivia?</h2>

The current crisis didn’t appear overnight. Like many countries, Bolivia experienced disruptions in routine vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Combined with misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and uneven access to healthcare in remote areas, immunization rates dropped to dangerously low levels.

This created fertile ground for the measles virus to resurface. Unlike other diseases that require direct contact, measles is airborne and can linger in the air for hours. Just one infected person can spread it to up to 18 others in an unvaccinated population.

India’s shipment of vaccines is part of a larger diplomatic and public health strategy. Known as the pharmacy of the Global South, India has been supplying vaccines and essential medicines to dozens of countries for decades. During the COVID-19 crisis, its Vaccine Maitri initiative helped over 90 nations.

In Bolivia’s case, the consignment not only supports outbreak response—it also reflects India’s growing role as a global health partner. By responding quickly and decisively, India is showing that vaccine diplomacy can fill the void where traditional global mechanisms may be slower to act.

Bolivia’s response plan now hinges on mass immunization campaigns—especially for children under five. President Luis Arce Catacora urged citizens to fully cooperate with health authorities. “Our duty is clear: to protect our children and the population from a threat that has already raised health alerts across the continent,” he said.

These campaigns will be coordinated across local and regional levels, supported by international organizations and bilateral partners like India. The goal is twofold: contain the outbreak quickly and restore public trust in routine immunizations.

What’s happening in Bolivia is a warning to the rest of the world. The measles virus doesn’t respect borders, and as global travel resumes, so does the risk of transmission. According to the World Health Organization, measles cases and deaths globally rose by 43% in 2022 alone. If global immunization coverage falls below 95%—especially for the two-dose measles vaccine—outbreaks are inevitable.

From Vaccine Access to Outbreak Prevention: The Missing Link

Here’s what this crisis teaches us: access to vaccines alone isn't enough. Countries need resilient health systems that can deliver these vaccines consistently, even in remote areas and during disruptions like a pandemic or natural disaster.

What this really means is that vaccine availability, while crucial, must be paired with last-mile delivery, consistent public messaging, and community trust. Otherwise, even the best stockpile can’t stop a virus that spreads faster than the news of its arrival.

The resurgence of measles in Bolivia isn’t just a regional emergency—it’s a global red flag. If countries let their guard down, diseases that were nearly eliminated will come roaring back. India’s support to Bolivia is a timely reminder that in public health, preparedness is not a choice, it’s a necessity.

Measles is preventable. The vaccine works. The challenge is ensuring it's not just produced and delivered—but also accepted, administered, and trusted. That’s the path to not just containing outbreaks—but ending them for good.

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Bolivia is in the middle of a public health emergency. Measles—once thought to be close to eradication in many parts of the world—has returned, with 60 confirmed cases sparking alarm across the country. In response, India dispatched 300,000 doses of the combined Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccine, providing a much-needed boost to Bolivia's immunization drive.This timely shipment comes as the South American country scrambles to contain the outbreak. The Bolivian government has declared a National Health Emergency, activated emergency protocols, and called on local governments and global partners to ramp up vaccination efforts.Measles is often underestimated, especially in countries where immunization coverage is high. But here’s the reality: measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to humans. It can cause severe complications—pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death—especially in children under five or those with malnutrition.Bolivia's Health Minister Maria Renee Castro made it clear: the outbreak could spiral if parents don’t act. “It is essential that parents get their children vaccinated,” she said. Though the country has half a million doses in stock, coverage is falling short. And that’s the bigger issue.What Triggered The Measles Outbreak In Bolivia?The current crisis didn’t appear overnight. Like many countries, Bolivia experienced disruptions in routine vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Combined with misinformation, vaccine hesitancy, and uneven access to healthcare in remote areas, immunization rates dropped to dangerously low levels.This created fertile ground for the measles virus to resurface. Unlike other diseases that require direct contact, measles is airborne and can linger in the air for hours. Just one infected person can spread it to up to 18 others in an unvaccinated population.India’s shipment of vaccines is part of a larger diplomatic and public health strategy. Known as the pharmacy of the Global South, India has been supplying vaccines and essential medicines to dozens of countries for decades. During the COVID-19 crisis, its Vaccine Maitri initiative helped over 90 nations.In Bolivia’s case, the consignment not only supports outbreak response—it also reflects India’s growing role as a global health partner. By responding quickly and decisively, India is showing that vaccine diplomacy can fill the void where traditional global mechanisms may be slower to act.Bolivia’s response plan now hinges on mass immunization campaigns—especially for children under five. President Luis Arce Catacora urged citizens to fully cooperate with health authorities. “Our duty is clear: to protect our children and the population from a threat that has already raised health alerts across the continent,” he said.These campaigns will be coordinated across local and regional levels, supported by international organizations and bilateral partners like India. The goal is twofold: contain the outbreak quickly and restore public trust in routine immunizations.What’s happening in Bolivia is a warning to the rest of the world. The measles virus doesn’t respect borders, and as global travel resumes, so does the risk of transmission. According to the World Health Organization, measles cases and deaths globally rose by 43% in 2022 alone. If global immunization coverage falls below 95%—especially for the two-dose measles vaccine—outbreaks are inevitable.From Vaccine Access to Outbreak Prevention: The Missing LinkHere’s what this crisis teaches us: access to vaccines alone isn't enough. Countries need resilient health systems that can deliver these vaccines consistently, even in remote areas and during disruptions like a pandemic or natural disaster.What this really means is that vaccine availability, while crucial, must be paired with last-mile delivery, consistent public messaging, and community trust. Otherwise, even the best stockpile can’t stop a virus that spreads faster than the news of its arrival.The resurgence of measles in Bolivia isn’t just a regional emergency—it’s a global red flag. If countries let their guard down, diseases that were nearly eliminated will come roaring back. India’s support to Bolivia is a timely reminder that in public health, preparedness is not a choice, it’s a necessity.Measles is preventable. The vaccine works. The challenge is ensuring it's not just produced and delivered—but also accepted, administered, and trusted. That’s the path to not just containing outbreaks—but ending them for good.

india sends 300,000 measles vaccines to bolivia amid rapidly growing disease outbreak

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UK Issues Slushie Warning: Why This Summer Favourite Could Be Risky for Kids

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Just as British summer hits full swing, the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has dropped a warning: slushies may not be so child-friendly after all. In an urgent new advisory, the FSA has warned parents to steer clear of giving slush ice drinks to children under seven, especially those containing a chemical called glycerol. And for kids between seven and ten? Keep it to a strict 350 ml a day.

What’s So Dangerous About a Slushie?

Slushies may seem like they beat the heat, but beneath that colour lies a syrupy science experiment. Most commercial slush drinks get their signature texture from glycerol, a compound that keeps ice from freezing into one giant block and gives slushies their semi-liquid, chewable charm. The trouble is, glycerol is harmful when consumed in large quantities, especially by small bodies.

According to the FSA, excessive intake of glycerol in a short span can cause mild symptoms like nausea, headaches and vomiting. But in more severe cases, children can suffer from dangerously low blood sugar, go into shock, or even lose consciousness.

This warning did not come out of nowhere. The FSA has seen a surge in reports of children collapsing after drinking slushies. In many of these cases, the affected kids had consumed slush drinks in large amounts over a short period. 

Summer’s New Parenting Rule

The FSA is urging parents and carers to be vigilant. Before buying a slushie, they recommend asking vendors whether the drink contains glycerol. If you are not sure, play it safe, especially with younger kids. Parents should also keep an eye on home-use slush kits and ready-to-drink slush pouches, which may also include this ingredient.

The shops have now also been instructed to stop offering free slushie refills for children under 10 and to use the minimal amount of glycerol necessary to get that slushy texture.

What to Do If a Slushie Turns Sour

If your child starts feeling queasy or dizzy after downing a slushie, do not panic, but do act. In mild cases, giving them a sugary snack or drink can help stabilise blood sugar levels. But if your child seems lethargic, confused, or unresponsive, call 999 immediately. It is better to be overly cautious than to risk a serious health episode.

Slushie Season, But Make It Safer

This new advice arrives just ahead of the school summer holidays, the peak slushie season in the UK. As temperatures soar, these icy drinks will be everywhere. The message from the FSA is clear: slushies are not forbidden, but they are not harmless either. Especially when they are packed with glycerol and served up to tiny tummies. 

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summer drinks

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Just as British summer hits full swing, the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has dropped a warning: slushies may not be so child-friendly after all. In an urgent new advisory, the FSA has warned parents to steer clear of giving slush ice drinks to children under seven, especially those containing a chemical called glycerol. And for kids between seven and ten? Keep it to a strict 350 ml a day.What’s So Dangerous About a Slushie?Slushies may seem like they beat the heat, but beneath that colour lies a syrupy science experiment. Most commercial slush drinks get their signature texture from glycerol, a compound that keeps ice from freezing into one giant block and gives slushies their semi-liquid, chewable charm. The trouble is, glycerol is harmful when consumed in large quantities, especially by small bodies.According to the FSA, excessive intake of glycerol in a short span can cause mild symptoms like nausea, headaches and vomiting. But in more severe cases, children can suffer from dangerously low blood sugar, go into shock, or even lose consciousness. The Risks Are Real and Rising This warning did not come out of nowhere. The FSA has seen a surge in reports of children collapsing after drinking slushies. In many of these cases, the affected kids had consumed slush drinks in large amounts over a short period. Summer’s New Parenting RuleThe FSA is urging parents and carers to be vigilant. Before buying a slushie, they recommend asking vendors whether the drink contains glycerol. If you are not sure, play it safe, especially with younger kids. Parents should also keep an eye on home-use slush kits and ready-to-drink slush pouches, which may also include this ingredient.The shops have now also been instructed to stop offering free slushie refills for children under 10 and to use the minimal amount of glycerol necessary to get that slushy texture.What to Do If a Slushie Turns SourIf your child starts feeling queasy or dizzy after downing a slushie, do not panic, but do act. In mild cases, giving them a sugary snack or drink can help stabilise blood sugar levels. But if your child seems lethargic, confused, or unresponsive, call 999 immediately. It is better to be overly cautious than to risk a serious health episode.Slushie Season, But Make It SaferThis new advice arrives just ahead of the school summer holidays, the peak slushie season in the UK. As temperatures soar, these icy drinks will be everywhere. The message from the FSA is clear: slushies are not forbidden, but they are not harmless either. Especially when they are packed with glycerol and served up to tiny tummies. 

uk issues slushie warning: why this summer favourite could be risky for kids

Ishita Roy

Four people in Florida have died from Vibrio vulnificus, a dangerous bacterium often dubbed the "flesh-eating" bacteria, as the state reports a total of 11 infections this summer. The deaths occurred across Hillsborough, Bay, Broward, and St. Johns counties, according to the Florida Department of Health’s latest update released on July 11.

Cases have also been identified in Duval, Escambia, Lee, Manatee, Santa Rosa, and Walton counties. While the numbers might seem small, health officials say the consequences can be devastating if the infection is not caught early.

Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm saltwater or brackish water, which is a mix of salt and freshwater. It thrives particularly well during the hotter months, which is why infections spike from May through October. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the bacteria is halophilic, meaning it needs salt to survive.

While rare, the infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis. It is a condition where flesh-eating bacteria could destroy the tissue under the skin, and can lead to death in just a few days if left untreated.

According to Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease specialist and associate professor at the University of Florida, as reported by WUSF, West Central Florida's NPR station broadcasting news, there are two main ways people typically contract Vibrio vulnificus.

“We can consume it through contaminated shellfish, specifically oysters,” Beatty said. If ingested, the bacteria can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

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But the more dangerous and more common route, he explains, is through open wounds. “If someone with a cut or scrape enters brackish or saltwater contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, the bacteria can enter the body through the skin and cause serious infection,” he warned.

Symptoms often appear quickly; sometimes within hours of exposure. Early signs include redness, pain, and swelling around the wound. As the infection progresses, it can cause skin ulcers, blisters, and even tissue death. Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, and low blood pressure may also follow.

“A delay in treatment can lead to serious complications, including amputations or even death,” Dr. Beatty cautioned.

People with weakened immune systems, liver disease, or chronic health conditions are at greater risk of developing severe infections. But Dr. Beatty emphasized that even healthy individuals aren’t immune.

“I’ve seen otherwise healthy people who got a small cut while fishing or kayaking and ended up battling this infection,” he said.

With summer in full swing and more people spending time in and around water, doctors urge caution. If you have an open wound, avoid wading or swimming in warm seawater or brackish water. If exposure happens accidentally, clean the wound immediately with soap and bottled water. Covering healing wounds with waterproof bandages can also reduce the risk of infection.

If symptoms develop after being in such water or consuming raw seafood, particularly oysters, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor of your recent exposure.

WUSF reports that in 2024 alone, Florida reported 82 Vibrio vulnificus cases and 19 deaths. Some of those were tied to flooding from Hurricane Helene, which caused contaminated water to spread inland. In past years, spikes in infections have been linked to major storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Ian in 2022.

The CDC estimates around 80,000 Vibrio-related illnesses occur in the U.S. each year, with about 100 deaths, many of them preventable with timely care.

As Dr. Beatty puts it, “This is not a bacteria to take lightly. With increased awareness and a bit of caution, we can lower the risk and save lives.”

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Four people in Florida have died from Vibrio vulnificus, a dangerous bacterium often dubbed the "flesh-eating" bacteria, as the state reports a total of 11 infections this summer. The deaths occurred across Hillsborough, Bay, Broward, and St. Johns counties, according to the Florida Department of Health’s latest update released on July 11.Cases have also been identified in Duval, Escambia, Lee, Manatee, Santa Rosa, and Walton counties. While the numbers might seem small, health officials say the consequences can be devastating if the infection is not caught early.What Is Vibrio Vulnificus?Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm saltwater or brackish water, which is a mix of salt and freshwater. It thrives particularly well during the hotter months, which is why infections spike from May through October. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the bacteria is halophilic, meaning it needs salt to survive.While rare, the infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis. It is a condition where flesh-eating bacteria could destroy the tissue under the skin, and can lead to death in just a few days if left untreated.How People Get Infected?According to Dr. Norman Beatty, an infectious disease specialist and associate professor at the University of Florida, as reported by WUSF, West Central Florida's NPR station broadcasting news, there are two main ways people typically contract Vibrio vulnificus.“We can consume it through contaminated shellfish, specifically oysters,” Beatty said. If ingested, the bacteria can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.Also Read: 'Pretty Little Baby' Singer Connie Francis Passes Away At 87, What Happened To Her?But the more dangerous and more common route, he explains, is through open wounds. “If someone with a cut or scrape enters brackish or saltwater contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, the bacteria can enter the body through the skin and cause serious infection,” he warned.Symptoms to Watch ForSymptoms often appear quickly; sometimes within hours of exposure. Early signs include redness, pain, and swelling around the wound. As the infection progresses, it can cause skin ulcers, blisters, and even tissue death. Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, and low blood pressure may also follow.“A delay in treatment can lead to serious complications, including amputations or even death,” Dr. Beatty cautioned.Who’s Most at Risk?People with weakened immune systems, liver disease, or chronic health conditions are at greater risk of developing severe infections. But Dr. Beatty emphasized that even healthy individuals aren’t immune.“I’ve seen otherwise healthy people who got a small cut while fishing or kayaking and ended up battling this infection,” he said.How to Stay Safe?With summer in full swing and more people spending time in and around water, doctors urge caution. If you have an open wound, avoid wading or swimming in warm seawater or brackish water. If exposure happens accidentally, clean the wound immediately with soap and bottled water. Covering healing wounds with waterproof bandages can also reduce the risk of infection.If symptoms develop after being in such water or consuming raw seafood, particularly oysters, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor of your recent exposure.A Persistent Health ThreatWUSF reports that in 2024 alone, Florida reported 82 Vibrio vulnificus cases and 19 deaths. Some of those were tied to flooding from Hurricane Helene, which caused contaminated water to spread inland. In past years, spikes in infections have been linked to major storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Ian in 2022.The CDC estimates around 80,000 Vibrio-related illnesses occur in the U.S. each year, with about 100 deaths, many of them preventable with timely care.As Dr. Beatty puts it, “This is not a bacteria to take lightly. With increased awareness and a bit of caution, we can lower the risk and save lives.”

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