In this Article

• What is Mycobacterium marinum?
• What are other names for Mycobacterium marinum?
• How common is Mycobacterium marinum?
• How does a person get infected with Mycobacterium marinum?
• Who is at risk for Mycobacterium marinum infection?
• What are the symptoms of Mycobacterium marinum infection?
• What tests are available to diagnose the infection?
• How is Mycobacterium marinum infection treated?
• What is the prognosis for those infected with Mycobacterium marinum?
• How do I find a specialist?
• What are possible complications from Mycobacterium marinum?
• Do fish get infected with Mycobacterium marinum?
• What else could it be?
• How can I prevent this infection?
• Mycobacterium Marinum Glossary
• Mycobacterium Marinum Index

How can I prevent this infection?

The following steps may help to protect yourself from contracting an infection with M. marinum:

• Avoid fresh or saltwater activities if there are open cuts, scrapes, or sores on your skin, especially in bodies of water where this bacterium is known to exist.



• If you have a weakened immune system, you can reduce the risk of infection by carefully covering cuts, scrapes, or sores during fresh or saltwater activities and while cleaning fish tanks or handling, cleaning, or processing fish.



• Wear heavy gloves (leather or heavy cotton) while cleaning or processing fish, especially fish with sharp spines that may cause cuts, scratches, or sores to the hands and skin. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after fish processing or use a waterless cleanser.



• Wear waterproof gloves while cleaning home aquariums or fish tanks. Wash hands and forearms thoroughly with soap and running water after cleaning the tank, even if gloves were worn.



• Ensure regular and adequate chlorination of swimming pools to kill any bacteria that may be present.