July 31, 2023 1:35 PM

CT DPH warns residents about severe Vibrio infections caused by

Vibrio bacteria naturally live in certain coastal waters and are present in higher concentrations between May and October when water temperatures are warmer. Most people become infected by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Certain Vibrio species can also cause a skin infection when an open wound is exposed to salt water or brackish water. Brackish water is a mixture of fresh and salt water. It is often found where rivers meet the sea.
You can reduce your chance of getting this Vibrio infection by following these precautions:
--Don’t eat raw or undercooked oysters or other shellfish.
--If you have a wound (including from a recent surgery, piercing, or tattoo), stay out of saltwater or brackish water, if possible. This includes wading at the beach.
--Cover all wounds with a waterproof bandage if it could come into contact with saltwater, brackish water, marine life, or raw or undercooked seafood and its juices. This contact can happen during everyday activities, such as swimming, fishing, or walking on the beach.
--Wash wounds and cuts thoroughly with soap and water after they have contact with saltwater, brackish water, marine life, raw seafood, or its juices.

Read the Full Press Release Here:
https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Press-Room/Press-Releases---2023/Vibrio