NEW YORK, Aug 18 (NNN-AGENCIES) — At least three people have died in Connecticut and New York after contracting a rare flesh-eating bacteria that can be found in warm, brackish waters or raw shellfish, officials confirmed.
Two people in Connecticut became infected with Vibrio vulnificus and died after swimming in two separate locations on Long Island Sound, according to Christopher Boyle, director of communications for the state’s Department of Public Health.
A third person was infected in July after eating raw oysters from an out-of-state establishment, according to the Department of Public Health.
All three were between 60 and 80 years old, according to the department.
The bacteria has also been detected in an individual who died in Long Island, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday. Officials are still investigating the death in Suffolk County to determine whether the bacteria was encountered in New York waters or elsewhere, according to the news release.
Vibrio vulnificus comes from the same family as the bacteria that causes cholera.
A mild case of the bacterial infection vibriosis can cause skin wounds, blisters, abscesses and ulcers. It typically includes chills, fever, diarrhea, stomach pain and possibly vomiting. In more severe cases, people can develop septicemia. This is more common for those with underlying health conditions, particularly liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV or other diseases that suppress the immune system.Ad Feedback
Anyone can get vibriosis, but people with an open wound, such as a cut or scrape, a recent piercing or a new tattoo, should avoid exposing skin to warm seawater in coastal environments or cover the area with a waterproof bandage, the news release says.
Doctors say it is important to seek treatment quickly if you develop a skin infection after possible exposure to the bacteria.
Vibrio vulnificus causes an estimated 80,000 illnesses and 100 deaths in the United States every year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. — NNN-AGENCIES
