A potentially lethal flesh-eating bacteria might be present in Long Island’s waters, with researchers indicating that infected individuals have a 20% chance of dying within just 48 hours.
This week, Dr. Christopher Gobler, an ecologist and professor at Stony Brook University, revealed that his team has pinpointed “hot spots” for Vibrio vulnificus in various ponds.
“This bacteria is quite dangerous and can infect humans,” Gobler explained to the press. “It exists in our waters and poses a genuine risk.” He further highlighted the severe nature of the infection, transmitted through open wounds.
His research team has been monitoring this bacterium, which originates from the American Gulf, since it was first identified in Long Island Sound in 2023, following three fatalities linked to it.
Gobler’s team indicated on Tuesday that Vibrio vulnificus has spread to additional bodies of water, including Sagaponack Pond, Mecox Bay, and Georgica Pond on the South Fork.
The professor attributes the rise of this bacterial threat to a combination of factors like nitrogen runoff, harmful algae blooms, and climate change.
Doctors have noted that nitrogen from approximately 360,000 aging cesspools and septic systems in Suffolk County is contaminating local waterways and contributing to these algae blooms.
This nitrogen continues to fuel these blooms as water temperatures increase and oxygen levels drop.
“If you’re elderly or have a weakened immune system, it might be wise to avoid swimming in the water, especially if you have an open wound,” Gobler cautioned.
He also mentioned that regions like East Quogue, Southold, and the entire western part of Shinnecock Bay are heavily contaminated with algae, leading to shellfish accumulating dangerous neurotoxins that are far more toxic than cyanide, which has severely impacted the local oyster industry.
Many other bays and ponds across Long Island also exhibit toxins linked to harmful algae blooms, according to Gobler.
“For instance, here on Long Island, certain dogs have fallen ill or even died after drinking from lake water,” he noted.
Although no deaths have been reported on Long Island since the three in 2023, researchers warn that risks could escalate with rising ocean temperatures each summer.
