I hear about people in Hawaii with the flesh-eating disease. Is that true or just a rumor? ‘Flesh-eating’ bacteria
actually quite commonThe disease with the grisly and sensational name is rare and serious, but not uncommon, here or elsewhere.
Dr. Marian Melish, an infectious disease specialist at Kapiolani Medical Center, told the Star-Bulletin last year that the disease -- necrotizing fasciitis -- has been around since the beginning of time.
She said she personally encounters up to half a dozen cases each year, but that it has never become epidemic here.
The disease is a virulent form of the streptococcus bacteria that enters through cuts or punctures, then attacks the covering of muscles and tissue beneath the skin.
It gained attention last year in a case involving a woman charged with manslaughter in the death of Lynne Lindquist following a post-soccer game fight in Palolo.
The attorney for defendant Georgette Kido said his client could not have known that the fight would result in an infection by the "flesh-eating" bacteria that would kill Lindquist.
Kido was convicted of the lesser charge of attempted assault.
Nationally, 1,000-2,000 cases of the disease are reported each year, with deaths occurring in 20 to 30 percent of them.
Doctors say the best way to prevent the disease is with good hygiene, to clean wounds with soap and water, and by using antibiotics.
Other Kokua Line items:
Parking by armored car vehicles.
