Flesh-Eating Bacteria Claims Lives in Three Coastal States: On the Eastern Seaboard, eight individuals have been killed by flesh-eating bacteria, prompting health officials to advise caution around warm sea water and when cooking or consuming shellfish.
Flesh-Eating Bacteria Claims Lives in Three Coastal States
Vibrio vulnificus is a rare bacteria that can infect open incisions or infect individuals who have consumed contaminated shellfish. Those with unprotected scrapes and wounds, liver disease or cancer, and those taking medication to reduce stomach acid levels are at increased risk.
Florida has reported 26 cases and five deaths, New York has reported one death from a wound infection, and Connecticut has reported two wound infections and one individual infected from eating raw, non-local oysters. Two of the infected individuals in Connecticut have passed away.
“Vibrio vulnificus can cause severe infections when exposed to open wounds and cuts, including recent surgeries, piercings, and tattooed skin,” the Connecticut Department of Health warned in a statement. “Vibrio are referred to as’shellfish bacteria’ in the media; however, these bacteria occur naturally in salt and brackish environments. Because shellfish can absorb any contaminants, including bacteria, prevalent in the water, they are a highly regulated food product.
To prevent infection with the bacteria, the CDC advises individuals with cuts or wounds to avoid saline and other non-freshwater areas, such as beach wading. If wounds could come in contact with these types of water, raw or undercooked seafood, or its fluids, another option is to cover them with water-resistant bandages. After contact with potentially contaminated water or seafood, wounds or cuts should be washed thoroughly with detergent and water.
Those with compromised immune systems should avoid handling and consuming raw seafood, according to New York health officials. According to the Florida Department of Health, everyone can prevent bacterial infection by avoiding uncooked oysters and other raw shellfish. Additionally, Florida health officials suggested:
- Thoroughly cooking crustaceans such as oysters, clams, and mussels
- Cooking shellfish in the shell until the shells open, followed by an additional 5 minutes of simmering; or steaming until the shells open, followed by 9 minutes of cooking.
- Consuming only crustaceans that open when cooked
- Boiling oysters for at least three minutes or heating them in oil for at least ten minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is required.
- Preventing the contamination of cooked dishes by raw seafood and raw seafood juices
- When handling raw shellfish, wear protective clothing such as gloves and wash hands completely afterwards.
