Three People Died In The U.S. After Infected With Flesh-Eating Bacteria

Vibriosis is caused by several species of bacteria including the Vibrio Vulnificus Bacteria which occurs naturally in saltwater coastal environments.

Three people have died in the U.S. as a result of a flesh-eating bacteria.

Vibriosis is a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection that can cause skin breakdown and ulcers and is found in raw shellfish or seawater. One New York resident and two Connecticut residents were known to be infected with the bacteria before their deaths.

Vibriosis is caused by several species of bacteria including the Vibrio Vulnificus Bacteria which occurs naturally in saltwater coastal environments. Exposure to the bacteria can result in ear infections, cause sepsis and life-threatening wound infections along with several other symptoms including fever, chills and vomiting.

To help prevent infection, people with open wounds or a recent piercing or tattoo should avoid exposing skin to warm seawater in coastal environments.

Those with compromised immune systems should avoid eating raw or under-cooked shellfish such as oysters.