A flesh-eating bacteria was just discovered all over Long Island
Alternet • • health
Key Points:
- Vibrio bacteria, which causes the disease vibriosis, has been found across Long Island, prompting health warnings due to its potential to cause severe symptoms including nausea, diarrhea, chills, and even death.
- The most dangerous strain, Vibrio vulnificus, can enter through small skin cuts and cause death within 24 hours; it has a high fatality rate of 15-50%, particularly when contracted through contaminated seafood.
- Vibrio thrives in Long Island waters such as Sagaponack Pond, Mecox Bay, and Georgica Pond, driven by factors like algae blooms, nitrogen runoff, and climate change, which are expanding its presence.
- Experts warn that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and immunocompromised individuals with open wounds, should avoid exposure to potentially contaminated waters during the summer months.
- Researchers view the presence of Vibrio as an indicator of water health and climate change impacts, highlighting the growing public health threat posed by this rare but deadly pathogen.
