Hartford, Connecticut – The states of Connecticut and New York have issued warnings urging residents to be cautious when consuming raw shellfish or swimming in brackish waters due to multiple cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a potentially deadly bacteria.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a warning to residents on 16 August after a resident in Suffolk County, New York died from an infection of the bacteria. This case followed the infection of three people in Connecticut: two after swimming in locations on Long Island Sound, and one after consuming raw oysters from an out-of-state establishment, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).
Connecticut DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani expressed concern about the identification of severe cases, including one fatality, due to V. vulnificus, and advised people to consider the potential risk of consuming raw oysters and exposure to salt or brackish water. The department emphasized the importance of taking appropriate precautions, especially during the hottest months of the summer when bacteria are more likely to overgrow and contaminate raw shellfish.
The three patients in Connecticut, all between 60 and 80 years of age, were hospitalized, according to the DPH. Additionally, the Associated Press reported that two deaths in July were associated with Vibrio. The Connecticut Bureau of Aquaculture does not believe the state’s infections are linked to local shellfish.
The recent death in Suffolk County is still under investigation by New York officials to determine whether the bacteria was encountered inside the state or elsewhere. New York State Health Commissioner James McDonald reminded healthcare providers to be on the lookout for cases of vibriosis and suggested that New Yorkers with wounds should avoid swimming in warm seawater. If they have a compromised immune system, they should also avoid handling or consuming raw seafood that could carry the bacteria.