Flesh-eating bacteria becoming more common in Delaware Bay due to climate change, study finds

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/flesh-eating-bacteria-becoming-more-prominent-in-delaware-bay-and-jersey-shore-due-to-climate-change-study-finds/

By Caitlin O'Kane
Updated on: June 18, 2019 / 10:03 AM


Flesh-eating bacteria becoming more common in Delaware Bay due to climate change, study finds

By Caitlin O'Kane

Updated on: June 18, 2019 / 10:03 AM / CBS News

A dangerous flesh-eating bacteria may be on the rise at some popular East Coast beaches due to warming water temperatures. In the past two years, five cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterial infection that is spread by handling or eating contaminated seafood, have been linked to Delaware Bay, according to a study.

Vibrio vulnificus usually occurs in high-salinity, brackish waters with surface temperatures above 13 degrees Celsius, or 55 degrees Fahrenheit, the study says. It has typically been found in the warm waters of the Gulf Coast and southern states like Louisiana and Texas, especially during the months from May to October.

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The most common cause of infection is eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters.

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The study notes that the past three decades have seen a significant increase in sea surface temperatures in many areas of the United States, resulting in "longer summer seasons and ... alterations in the quantity, distribution, and seasonal windows of bacteria" in the coastal ecosystem, providing "more favorable conditions for Vibrio."

"While the infection is still rare, it is being seen with more frequency in this region," Doktor explained.

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"Water and wounds do not mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes," the Florida Department of Health warns.