Fish-Handler's Disease Overview
Fish-handler's disease occurs when cuts or scrapes in the
skin become infected with the bacteria
Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Handling and preparing fish and shellfish can create small cuts and scrapes in the skin, where bacteria may enter. Developing fish-handler's disease requires deliberate contact with fish, particularly lobster and other shellfish. Fish-handler's disease occurs worldwide wherever fish and shellfish are handled.