A case report published in the UK revealed that the rare but potentially fatal “flesh-eating bacteria” infection can affect the female external genital area as well.

Doctors from Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital in the UK reported three different cases of necrotizing fasciitis affecting the external genital area (vulva). This disease, known colloquially as the “flesh-eating bacteria,” is an extremely aggressive type of infection. It is mainly seen in individuals with weak immune systems and can rapidly progress to fatal outcomes. It CAN BE FATAL IN JUST HOURS.

According to microbiology professor Bill Sullivan from Indiana University, the bacteria can enter the skin and reach the connective tissues surrounding muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, quickly “melting” or destroying these tissues. If the infection enters the bloodstream, it triggers a systemic immune response called sepsis, which can result in organ failure. The first patient mentioned in the case report started with a small skin lesion that rapidly spread, leading to their death within 28 hours despite being treated in intensive care.

SURGERY AND EARLY DIAGNOSIS CAN SAVE LIVES

The second patient, who developed an abscess in the labia majora resulting in rapid tissue loss, underwent three surgeries and reconstructive surgery, ultimately recovering. The third patient acquired this disease through a wound infection following a hysterectomy; the infected tissue was removed, and they were saved with potent antibiotics. GYNECOLOGISTS WARN: DETECT SYMPTOMS EARLY

Experts emphasize that although necrotizing fasciitis in the vaginal area is rare, it is highly dangerous, and delayed diagnosis significantly increases the risk of death. It is usually associated with traumatic skin injuries, sexual intercourse, surgical procedures, or piercings. Sullivan notes that diagnosing the vaginal form of the disease may be more challenging, emphasizing the need for gynecologists to be vigilant: “Time is critical. Early diagnosis saves lives.” INFECTIONS ARE INCREASING: 20 CASES IN JUST 2 YEARS

According to the report, Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital saw 20 cases of flesh-eating bacteria between 2022 and 2024, surpassing the total of 18 cases reported in the previous 10 years. Additionally, many countries in Europe and the US are reporting an increase in group A streptococcal infections causing necrotizing fasciitis. Experts are calling for greater awareness of this deadly disease.