Father Fights for Life After Flesh-Eating Infection from Waters

A 38-year-old father, Ben West, is battling for his life after a blister on his ankle transformed into a severe infection caused by the bacteria Vibrio vulnificus. This deadly bacterium can lead to rapid organ failure, and West’s experience underscores the grave risks associated with exposure in coastal waters.

On August 23, 2023, West was crabbing and fishing with his children in the coastal waters of Port St Joe, Florida, where the bacteria thrive. Just three days later, he began to experience confusion and disorientation. His fiancée, Janie Knowles, rushed him to Ascension Sacred Heart Bay hospital, where medical staff confirmed the diagnosis.

Shortly after, large blisters appeared on West’s ankle and spread rapidly up his leg. Knowles described the distressing sight, saying, “The blisters were everywhere, they were busting.” As the infection progressed, his leg swelled to four times its normal size, causing West to cry out in excruciating pain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that infections from Vibrio vulnificus can escalate quickly and result in death within days.

“The situation was deteriorating fast,” Knowles recalled. “I was scared, scared of death.” West’s condition worsened, resulting in kidney and liver failure, leaving his family in a state of fear and uncertainty. “Everything was happening so fast,” Knowles said. “I remember fainting, but when I came back, I was on my knees, praying for him.”

Since his hospitalization, West has undergone at least four surgeries, with doctors indicating that more will be necessary. While they believe the progression of the infection has stopped, the long road to recovery includes addressing the damage done to his skin. Knowles mentioned that skin grafts will likely be needed in the future.

To assist with the mounting medical expenses, West’s family has established a GoFundMe campaign. Knowles emphasized that despite West’s previous good health, he became septic within 24 hours of infection. “He was very healthy with no health problems,” she noted.

The family is urging others to take caution when swimming in local waterways. “This disease, if you’re wrong, it will kill you,” said West’s father, Keith West. “You have to make up your own mind if it’s worth it.”

Understanding Vibrio vulnificus is crucial for public safety. This bacterium thrives in warm seawater and is more prevalent from May to October, particularly in Gulf Coast states. According to CDC data, it accounts for around 200 infections annually, with a fatality rate of approximately one in five cases.

Infections can occur through consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, or when bacteria enter the body through cuts or scrapes while in contaminated water. Early symptoms of a Vibrio infection may include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and blistering skin. If untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including necrotizing fasciitis, a life-threatening condition that affects tissue beneath the skin.

The initial signs of necrotizing fasciitis often include intense pain around a wound, flu-like symptoms, and swelling. If not addressed swiftly, the infection can lead to severe systemic illness.

As the West family navigates this challenging time, they remain hopeful for Ben’s recovery while advocating for greater awareness of the dangers posed by Vibrio vulnificus in coastal waters.