Flesh-eating bacteria found in popular U.S. tourist spot, carrying 20% risk of death within 48 hours

Scientists have discovered flesh-eating bacteria in the waters near a a popular U.S tourist area. Now they have issued a warning.

Researchers from Stony Brook University have identified Vibrio vulnificus at several locations in Long Island, New York, waters. It’s a bacterium that can become deadly within just 48 hours of infection.

Speaking to CBS New York, Professor Dr. Christopher Gobler, an expert in marine and atmospheric sciences, said his team found the bacteria in multiple places.

He explained: “Bacteria known as Vibrio vulnificus, also known by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a flesh-eating bacteria, is present and a risk in our waters.” The infection can be extremely serious.

“It’s a very, very serious infection; it gets into open wounds – people who are infected with this bacteria have a 20 percent chance of dying within just 48 hours,” the professor warned.

Humans are not the only ones at risk. Over the years, dogs that drank from the contaminated water have also become sick — and in some cases, died.