At least three people in the United States have died after contracting a rare flesh-eating bacterium, known as Vibriosis, according to state officials.
Two people in the state of Connecticut and one person in New York have died from the bacteria, officials said, urging residents to take responsible precautions. At least one of these people contracted the bacteria by eating oysters.
The Governor and New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald noted that the best way to avoid potential vibriosis infections is to protect open wounds from seawater, particularly warm seawater, as well as people with compromised immune systems avoid raw or undercooked shellfish, which could carry the bacteria.
WHAT IS VIBRIOSIS?
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) Vibrio bacteria live naturally in coastal waters and are most prevalent during the warm months between May and October. The most common way to contract the bacteria is by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters.
Some species of vibrio can cause rashes or skin infections when exposed to salty or brackish (mixture of fresh and saltwater) water. According to the CDC, people with chronic liver disease are most at risk for infection with this bacterium.
According to the CDC, each year some 80,000 cases are detected in the US, and more than half are the result of consuming contaminated food. Vibriosis is responsible for about 100 deaths a year, according to the CDC.
SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT
Although most people who contract vibriosis recover in about three days with no long-term effects, a small percentage of those who contract it require intensive care or even amputation, the CDC says.
The New York Department of Health states that the bacteria can cause skin breaks and ulcers, noting that healthcare professionals should consider vibriosis when diagnosing unexplained wound infections or sepsis.
For people who get vibriosis from consuming contaminated food, symptoms can include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and chills, according to the state health department. Exposure can also cause ear infections.
