Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria Case Reported In CT: DPH

The first case of a rare flesh-eating bacterial infection, Vibrio vulnificus, has been reported in Connecticut this year, according to health officials.

Vibrio bacteria are found in coastal waters, with higher concentrations during warmer months, typically between May and October. Several species can cause illness in humans, like Vibrio vulnificus.

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The CDC estimates that about 1 in 5 people infected with Vibrio vulnificus die.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health monitors infections year-round and typically sees a case or two every year.

The 2026 case occurred in February, and the individual survived, according to Brittany Schaefer, a public information officer for DPH.

The CDC estimates there are 80,000 cases of vibriosis in the U.S. every year, and 52,000 of them are from eating contaminated food, like raw or undercooked shellfish.

People can become infected from swimming in coastal waters with an open wound.

"We urge residents to avoid swimming in brackish or salt water with open wounds," Schaefer said. "DPH works with DoAg and DEEP to provide oversight of the statewide shellfish safety and sanitation program."

Vibrio vulnificus can be life-threatening, with some infections causing necrotizing fasciitis, as the flesh around the wound dies, and may require limb amputation.

Common symptoms of an infection include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills.

A bloodstream infection can cause fever, chills, low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions. A wound infection can trigger fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration and discharge.