Flesh-Eating Bacteria Kills Three In New York & Connecticut

The New York State Health Department has released guidance for its residents after a flesh-eating bacterium killed two residents of Connecticut and one in New York. 

They announced that there were more than three people infected with the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria. The two from Connecticut contracted it after swimming in the Long Island Sounds, according to the director of communication for the Department of Public Health Christopher Boyle.  

The third person died in Long Island after it was detected in them. It has not yet been determined how the person came in contact with the bacteria. 

It was notified that a fourth received the infection after eating raw oyster at an out-of-state restaurant but is still alive. 

This bacterial infection is rarely encountered, but when it is, it can potentially be fatal. According to health officials, it can cause myriad problems, including ulcers, skin breakdown, blisters and abscesses. Typical side effects are diarrhea, chills, stomach pain, fever and vomiting. For people with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, HIV and cancer, it is more common for them to also develop the infection septicemia. 

The bacterium is typically found in either seawater or raw shellfish. 

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) commented on the situation describing it as “extraordinarily dangerous.” She warned her constituents to prepare themselves and take precautions against this infection. 

In a press release, Hochul stated, “While rare, the vibrio bacterium has unfortunately made it to this region and can be extraordinarily dangerous. 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 for those with compromised immune systems, avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish which may carry the bacteria.”

Dr. Manisha Juthani, the commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, also warned, “People should consider the potential risk of consuming raw oysters and exposure to salt or brackish water and take appropriate precautions.” 

It is advised that people should be careful when consuming any raw oysters and, if they have an open wound, to not swim in salty or brackish water.