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28 INTERNATIONAL AWEMainta Diahuebs, 31 Augustus 2023
Outbreak of Vibrio Vulnificus infections
claims lives in Connecticut and New York
IN a tragic turn of events, officials have confirmed the
deaths of at least three individuals in Connecticut and New
York due to the contraction of a rare flesh-eating bacteria.
The bacterium in question, Vibrio vulnificus, is known to
thrive in warm, brackish waters, as well as in raw shell-
fish. This alarming revelation has raised concerns regarding
the safety of individuals engaging in water activities and
consuming raw seafood.
According to Christopher Boyle, the Director of
Communications for the Connecticut Department of Public
Health, two individuals in Connecticut succumbed to Vibrio
vulnificus infections after separate swimming incidents in
Long Island Sound. Additionally, a third individual fell victim
to the bacterium in July after consuming raw oysters from
an out-of-state establishment. Notably, all three victims
were between the ages of 60 and 80. piercings, or new tattoos, it is imperative to avoid exposing
the skin to warm seawater in coastal environments.
Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium belonging to the same family Alternatively, one should cover the affected area with a
as the one responsible for cholera, typically resides in waterproof bandage. Swift medical attention is advised if a
warm seawater and falls under the category of “halophilic” skin infection develops following potential exposure to the
bacteria, as it necessitates a saline environment. Ingesting bacterium.
contaminated seafood or having an open wound exposed to
contaminated seawater can lead to Vibrio vulnificus infec- Disturbingly, Vibrio vulnificus is responsible for an estimated
tions. Symptoms range from vomiting, diarrhea, and abdom- 80,000 illnesses and 100 deaths annually in the United
inal pain in healthy individuals to severe and life-threatening States, as reported by the US Centers for Disease Control
illness characterized by fever, chills, decreased blood pres- and Prevention.
sure, septic shock, and blistering skin lesions in immuno- In light of these concerning developments, officials from
compromised persons, particularly those with chronic liver both Connecticut and New York strongly recommend that
disease. individuals exercise caution when consuming raw oysters or
coming into contact with salty or brackish water. Dr. Manisha
Alarmingly, Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream infections have a Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of
fatality rate of approximately 50%. Public Health, emphasized the importance of considering
Adding to the concern, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York the potential risks associated with raw shellfish consump-
announced the detection of Vibrio vulnificus in an individual tion, particularly during the hottest months of summer when
who tragically passed away in Long Island. Officials are dili- bacterial overgrowth is more likely.
gently investigating whether this bacterium was contracted
in New York waters or elsewhere. Governor Hochul of New York echoed these sentiments,
Vibriosis, the bacterial infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus, urging all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and take respon-
can manifest in various ways, including skin wounds, blis- sible precautions to safeguard themselves and their loved
ters, abscesses, and ulcers. Common symptoms encom- ones. This includes protecting open wounds from seawater
pass chills, fever, diarrhea, stomach pain, and potentially and, for individuals with compromised immune systems,
vomiting. Individuals with underlying health conditions, abstaining from the consumption of raw or undercooked
such as liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or any ailment shellfish, which may carry the dangerous Vibrio vulnificus
that suppresses the immune system, are more susceptible bacterium.
to severe cases and septicemia. In the face of this emerging health crisis, proactive measures
and heightened awareness are paramount to prevent further
For those who may be at risk due to open wounds, recent casualties attributed to Vibrio vulnificus infections.
