Flesh eating bacteria, rare but worth concern

Flesh eating bacteria is uncommon, but a number of things have to go wrong before someone can get such an infection. The bacteria is in the news again after a Georgia grad student went to the hospital to fight for her life against the disease.

ATLANTA, GA (Catholic Online) - Aimee Copeland contracted her infection after zip-lining at the Little Tallapoosa River. Her condition is rare, and has already forced doctors to amputate her leg. They may also have to amputate her fingers in an effort to save her life.
 
Estimates say that about 750 cases of flesh eating bacteria are reported each year, caused by a bacteria related to strep. Copeland's infection is actually caused by a different kind of bacteria, the Aeromonas hydrophila. Cases like hers are the most rare of all. 

People infected with flesh eating bacteria have about a 20 percent chance of dying from the infection or related problems. 

Mostly, the germs are found in brackish water and stagnant ponds, but unless a person has an open sore or wound, it is virtually impossible to get infected. The bacteria must first get inside a wound, then burrow into the flesh. If they happen to end up being deprived of oxygen, they can produce toxins that can poison a victim.

Doctors advise immediate medical care, especially for deep wounds and infections. Unless a doctor provides prompt care, the bacteria can spread. Some of the infections can also prove resistant to common antibiotics. Doctors say the infections can also prove difficult to diagnose.

In the meantime, Copeland continues to fight for her life in a Georgia hospital. So far, her family and doctors have refused further interviews. 

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