Health officials are issuing continued warnings about a rare flesh-eating bacteria that has claimed the life of a resident in New York State.
According to the most recent report from the CDC, residents of New York have recently contracted the uncommon illness.
Vibrio vulnificus Infections Confirmed In Three States Including New York
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Between June and August 2023, the CDC discovered a total of 11 infections in three states: New York, Connecticut, and North Carolina.
New York has reported two cases of infection, while North Carolina has seen seven cases and Connecticut has confirmed two cases.
Rare Fatal Bacterial Infection Kills Suffolk County, Long Island, New York Resident
During the summer, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York confirmed the unfortunate death of an individual from Suffolk County shortly after they tested positive for vibriosis.
3 People Die From Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria
According to the CDC, a total of five individuals lost their lives.
According to a press release from Hochul’s Office, vibriosis is a condition that results from the presence of various bacteria, including Vibrio vulnificus. This specific bacterium is commonly found in saltwater coastal environments and tends to be more prevalent during the warmer months from May to October. When ingested, vibriosis can lead to a variety of symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever, and chills. In addition, exposure to these bacteria can also result in ear infections and potentially life-threatening wound infections.
The CDC states that individuals who contracted the infection were exposed to coastal waters or consumed seafood.
The CDC reported that all of the cases occurred during “record-breaking” heat waves.