Health officials issue warning after five infected with potentially deadly bacteria in Connecticut
Connecticut health officials issued a warning to residents after five people were sickened by a potentially deadly bacteria in Long Island Sound.
In a news release issued Saturday, the Connecticut State Department of Health reported that five patients were infected and hospitalized after being exposed to brackish water, which is a mix of salt and fresh water, in July and August. All five patients had pre-existing wounds or suffered new wounds while in the water that led to their infections.
“The identification of these five cases over two months is very concerning,” state epidemiologist Dr. Matthew Cartter said. “This suggests the Vibrio bacteria may be present in salt or brackish water in or near Long Island Sound, and people should take precautions.”
The health department noted the bacteria was rare but could lead to serious illness and even amputation of an infected limb. About 20% of those with Vibrio infection die relatively quickly after becoming infected.
The elderly and people with compromised immune systems are especially susceptible to infection, the health department said.
Officials said the infected patients, who are all between the ages of 49 and 85, were all swimming, crabbing or boating along the shoreline when they were infected. While no deaths have been reported, two contracted septicemia, a bloodstream infection, and three had serious wound infections.
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