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According to a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, there was in increase in severe “flesh-eating” infections in three East Coast states in 2023.
The increase, which took place in the states of Connecticut, New York and North Carolina, is notable in “that they occurred in the wake of record-breaking U.S. heat waves,” the report states. Above-average sea surface temperatures are also to blame.
The bacteria that causes the disease, Vibrio vulnificus, can be found in raw or undercooked seafood. If ingested it can result in gastrointestinal infection with symptoms of watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and even sepsis.
It can also enter the body through an open wound, causing necrotizing fasciitis.
“Although these cases reported during July–August cannot be solely attributed to the heat waves, the relationship between vibriosis incidence and environmental conditions favorable to Vibrio growth, namely elevated water surface temperatures and low salinity, is well-documented,” the CDC’s latest Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report continues.
“Whereas North Carolina reported 10–13 cases per year during 2021–2023, Connecticut reported no V. vulnificus infections during all of 2021–2022, and New York reported three cases in 2021 and none in 2022.
“As coastal water temperatures increase, V. vulnificus infections are expected to become more common,” the CDC warns.
The 11 people affected by the flesh-eating disease caused by Vibrio vulnificus in those three states in 2023 were between 37 to 84 years old. Five of the patients died – three of which occurred after septic shock.
Seven of the cases occurred in North Carolina, two in Connecticut, and two in New York.
In six of the cases, the disease was contracted via waterborne transmission. Two “likely resulted from exposure to a cut on the hand while handling raw seafood.” Another “reported consuming raw oysters,” while the final patient reported both “wound exposure to brackish water and raw oyster consumption.”
Almost all of the patients who contracted the disease had at least one underlying condition including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, hematologic disease, and/or a history of alcoholism.
All of those who died had at least one underlying condition.
“Persons can take steps to prevent illness by avoiding wound contact with brackish water, salt water, and raw seafood, and by thoroughly cooking oysters and other seafood before eating,” the CDC recommends.