Flesh-eating Bacteria That Killed New Yorker is Spreading

Health officials are issuing urgent warnings as a dangerous flesh-eating bacteria - linked to the death of a New Yorker - is now spreading rapidly across states that are popular destinations for vacationers, retirees, and relocated residents from New York.

Authorities in Florida and Louisiana report that the bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, has caused at least eight deaths and infected 32 people this season, numbers they say are unusually high for a single year.

Florida health officials confirmed four deaths and 13 cases while Louisiana reported another four deaths and 17 cases. Officials in Louisiana noted that 75 percent of those cases came from “wound and seawater exposure.”

"Many people with Vibrio vulnificus infection can become seriously ill and need intensive care or limb amputation. About one in five people with this infection dies, sometimes within a day or two of becoming ill," the Louisiana Department of Health states. "Vibrio bacteria can cause illness when an open wound is exposed to coastal waters or when a person eats raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters."

All known patients were hospitalized.

Experts say Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm coastal waters and is most commonly reported between May and October when water temperatures are at their peak.

This year’s surge in cases has left health officials concerned as the numbers are higher than typical seasonal averages.

Because many New York residents have ties to Gulf Coast states - whether through family, retirement, or for vacation - Governor Kathy Hochul urged caution.

“While rare, the vibrio bacteria has unfortunately made it to this region and can be extraordinarily dangerous,” Hochul said.

“As we investigate further, it is critical that all New Yorkers stay vigilant and take responsible precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, including protecting open wounds from seawater and for those with compromised immune systems, avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish which may carry the bacteria.”

Officials have not determined whether the Suffolk County resident who died contracted the bacteria in New York waters or elsewhere.

The New York State Department of Health notes that while anyone can contract vibriosis, certain people face a much higher risk including those with liver disease, cancer, or weakened immune systems, as well as people taking medications to reduce stomach acid.

“While we continue to investigate the source of this rare infection, it is important for residents to remain aware and vigilant on precautions that can be taken. As always, if any residents have health concerns we encourage them to contact their health care provider," Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said.

The state health department has also issued an advisory to medical providers, urging them to consider Vibrio vulnificus when diagnosing severe wound infections or sepsis, especially during summer months.

"We are reminding providers to be on the lookout for cases of vibriosis, which is not often the first diagnosis that comes to mind. We are also suggesting to New Yorkers that if you have wounds you should avoid swimming in warm seawater. And if you have a compromised immune system, you should also avoid handling or eating raw seafood that could also carry the bacteria," New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.

According to the CDC, the following medical conditions and treatments can increase the risk of infection and severe complications from Vibrio vulnificus:

-Liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or thalassemia

-Immune-suppressing therapy for disease treatment

-Medications that reduce stomach acid levels

-Recent stomach surgery

Flesh-Eating Bacteria That Killed New Yorker Spreading