On Wednesday, health officials confirmed that three people died from a rare flesh-eating bacteria in New York and Connecticut.
According to reports, two individuals from Connecticut contracted Vibrio vulnificus after swimming in different spots on Long Island Sound and subsequently died.
In July, a third person died after eating raw oysters from an out-of-state establishment.
The Department of Public Health stated that all three individuals were between 60-80 years old.
Officials say Vibrio vulnificus can be found in warm, brackish waters or raw shellfish.
In a press release, Governor Kathy Hochul revealed that the virus was found in a deceased individual on Long Island. Officials are investigating the Suffolk County death to determine if the bacteria originated in New York waters or elsewhere.
Vibriosis, a bacterial infection, can lead to skin issues, chills, fever, and more severe complications like septicemia. People with underlying health conditions are at higher risk, including those with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or suppressed immune systems.
As per the news release, those with open wounds should avoid warm seawater or use waterproof bandages.
Doctors advise that swift treatment is vital if you encounter a skin infection after bacteria exposure.
The CDC reports that Vibrio vulnificus causes approximately 80,000 illnesses and 100 deaths annually in the US.
