Connecticut state health officials, USA, has warned residents along the coast about Vibrio vulnificus – a species of cannibal bacteria, potentially fatal.
According to NBC News, 5 patients (4 men and one woman, aged 49-85) were hospitalized after swimming, boating, crab fishing in saltwater, brackish water. They both have preexisting open wounds or scratches when operating.
A report from the local health agency said 2 patients had sepsis. The remaining 3 people’s wounds were seriously infected. Fortunately, 5 patients were promptly cured.
“The discovery of 5 new patients in just 2 months is very worrying. It indicates that Vibrio vulnificus may exist near the Strait of Long Island Sound. Everyone should be careful, ”warns Connecticut epidemiologist Matthew Cartter.
Very few people are infected with Vibrio vulnificus in this state, according to a health agency report. Within 10 years (2010-2019), Connecticut recorded 7 cases of cannibal bacteria infections. The group most at risk of infection is the elderly and the immune system is weak.
Vibrio vulnificus enters the body through an open wound. They usually live in brackish water and strait waters. Many patients have amputated limbs, which die after being infected with cannibal bacteria. About 20% of patients died from Vibrio vulnificus, according to NBC News.
In addition to infection through contact, people are also likely to be attacked by Vibrio vulnificus bacteria when eating raw seafood.