Overview
- Stony Brook scientists identified hotspots of Vibrio vulnificus in Sagaponack Pond, Mecox Bay, and Georgica Pond on the South Fork.
- Health officials said the bacteria can enter through tiny cuts or raw shellfish and can become fatal within 24 to 48 hours, so anyone with symptoms after exposure should seek urgent care.
- Dr. Christopher Gobler urged people with open wounds, weakened immune systems, or chronic illness to avoid suspect waters as temperatures climb into beach season.
- Some Long Island shellfishing areas have closed after harmful algal blooms tainted local waters, which can also contaminate oysters and other shellfish.
- CDC figures cited in the reports show several hundred U.S. vulnificus cases in recent years and a higher death rate from foodborne infections than from wound exposures.