New York and Connecticut report rare ‘flesh-eating’ infection. Stay informed.

Four People Dead in Northeast Due to Exposure to “Flesh-Eating Bacteria”

Four people in the Northeast ‍have tragically lost their lives after being exposed to vibrio vulnificus, commonly known as the “flesh-eating bacteria.” This rare​ but deadly infection has⁢ prompted Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) to ‌issue a public health warning,‍ urging New Yorkers to stay ‌vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Gov. Hochul’s Warning

“While rare, the vibrio⁤ bacteria has unfortunately made ​it to ‍this region and can ⁣be extraordinarily dangerous,”⁤ Hochul said. “As we investigate further, it ⁤is ​critical that all New Yorkers stay⁢ vigilant and take responsible ⁤precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones ⁢safe, including protecting ⁢open wounds from seawater and ⁣avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish for those with weakened immune systems“>compromised immune systems.”

Earlier this summer, two individuals in Connecticut contracted the bacteria after swimming in different locations on Long Island Sound. Another person from Connecticut tragically passed away after consuming raw oysters from outside the state. All ⁣three victims were over 60 years old.

Understanding Vibrio Vulnificus⁢ and‌ Vibrio Illness

Vibrio ⁢vulnificus is a type of bacteria that causes the ⁢most severe form of vibrio ⁤illness, also known as‌ vibriosis. Its ‌short ​incubation period and symptoms that closely resemble other diseases ​make it particularly dangerous.

Common symptoms of vibriosis include fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin redness or rash. If left untreated, these symptoms can quickly⁣ escalate and become fatal.

While the ‍Centers⁢ for Disease Control and Prevention estimates around 80,000 cases of vibriosis each year in the United States, only a ⁢small ​portion of those cases, approximately‍ 100 to 200, are caused by vibrio vulnificus. Other less harmful strains ⁤of⁢ vibrio bacteria are responsible for the rest.

Is Vibrio Vulnificus Truly a “Flesh-Eating” Bacteria?

Technically, no. The ⁢CDC clarifies that some vibrio vulnificus infections can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection where the flesh around an open wound dies. However, it’s ⁢important to note that various types of bacteria, including those that cause strep throat, can also cause necrotizing fasciitis.

If promptly identified, necrotizing‍ fasciitis can be treated with antibiotics and surgery, sometimes requiring amputation.

Discovery of Vibrio Vulnificus in the Region

The Connecticut Department of Public Health issued a warning on July 28, reporting three cases of vibrio vulnificus since July ⁢1. Prior to that, no cases had been reported since 2020, which had a total of five​ cases across the state.

Commissioner Manisha Juthani urged residents to be cautious when consuming raw oysters and being exposed⁢ to salt or brackish‌ water, especially⁢ during the current heatwave.

Protecting Against Vibrio Vulnificus

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with liver disease, diabetes, cancer, or HIV, are more susceptible to serious complications from vibriosis. They are advised⁣ to take extra precautions when around saltwater or marsh areas and when consuming raw or undercooked seafood and shellfish.

New York State⁤ Health Commissioner James McDonald also reminded clinicians to consider vibriosis as a potential diagnosis for‍ patients presenting with fever or rash, particularly if they recently had exposure ‍to possibly contaminated water.

For the general public, it is important to be cautious when swimming ​or wading in saltwater if⁤ you have an open wound or break in the skin. Using waterproof bandages or limiting exposure can help reduce the risk. Those who work with seafood or saltwater are at the highest risk and should take necessary precautions.

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