What are the odds that you could wind up with a horrifying flesh-eating disease?

Chances are, none of us will wind up with the terrifying flesh-eating bacteria disease that has been getting some press lately...  

According to Dr. William Schaffner, from the department of preventative medicine at University School of Medicine in Nashville, about 500 to 800 people in the US each year wind up with it. Necrotizing fasciitis gets a lot of attention because the condition is so frightening – but it’s actually still considered quite rare. 

If you’re still worried about it, Dr. Schaffner has the symptoms to watch for. If you have surprisingly severe pain from an injury or a wound that is becoming red and swollen instead of healing – get medical attention immediately. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the better the odds of recovery will be.

Dr. Schaffner also has this advice: Any wound beyond a superficial cut or scrape should be looked at by a health professional, who can ensure that it’s cleaned properly. It’s well worth the time.