July 4 Beachgoers Face Risk of Flesh-Eating Bacteria in New York
Summary
Health officials in New York warn that Vibrio vulnificus, a harmful bacteria sometimes called "flesh-eating bacteria," may be found in coastal waters during summer, especially around the July 4 holiday. The bacteria can cause serious infections, especially in people with open wounds or weak immune systems, but beaches have not been closed because of this.Key Facts
- Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that lives in warm saltwater and brackish water (where fresh and saltwater mix).
- It can cause serious infections if open wounds touch contaminated water or from eating undercooked shellfish like oysters.
- About 20% of people who get infected may die, sometimes within days.
- The bacteria has been found farther north than before due to warming coastal waters, including in parts of New York.
- The Southampton Town Trustees issued an advisory warning residents and visitors about this bacteria.
- Most infections happen to people with underlying health problems or weak immune systems.
- No New York beaches have been closed because of Vibrio vulnificus; standard water monitoring continues.
- Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, pain, fever, and low blood pressure; immediate medical care is recommended if symptoms appear.
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