A deadly “flesh-eating” bacteria has been found in several ponds and creeks on New York Island, with experts warning that infection could be fatal within hours. Scientists have identified “hotspots” of Vibrio vulnificus — a dangerous pathogen known as a flesh-eating bacteria by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — at several locations on Long Island.
The findings were revealed this week by Stony Brook University professor Christopher Gobler, who said the bacteria is now present in many specific bodies of water. “A bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus, which the CDC also knows as flesh-eating bacteria, is present in our water and is a threat,” he said. He warned about the speed and severity of infection, saying: “This is a very serious infection, it enters open wounds – people who are infected with this bacteria have a 20% chance of dying within just 48 hours.”
This bacteria has been found in Sagaponack Pond, Mecox Bay and Georgica Pond, with Gobler confirming that it has now been found in several additional ponds and creeks throughout the region this week.
He said its spread is being driven by a combination of nitrogen runoff, algal blooms and climate change, which is rapidly worsening water conditions.
The warning also extends to seafood, with waters in East Quogue, Southold and the western half of Shinnecock Bay becoming contaminated with algae that are pumping out shellfish filled with dangerous neurotoxins — believed to be 1,000 times more toxic than cyanide — posing a growing threat to the area’s oyster industry.
“For example, we have dogs here on Long Island that have become sick and even died from drinking lake water,” Gobler said.
He urged caution for those most at risk, warning: “If someone is immunocompromised, or elderly and they have open wounds in the summer, you may want to stay out of the water.”
No deaths have been reported on Long Island since three cases in 2023, but Gobler warned the risk is likely to increase as waters continue to warm over the summer.
