Health Officials Warn After Cape Cod Swimmer Contracts Flesh Eating Bacteria

Officials in Falmouth, Massachusetts, are warning beachgoers after a woman contracted a rare flesh-eating bacteria infection (Vibrio vulnificus) while swimming at a local beach. The bacteria, which thrives in warm coastal waters, can enter the body through open cuts or wounds and in severe cases cause life-threatening illness.

The woman, who noticed redness and swelling after her swim, was treated by doctors before the infection worsened. Officials stressed that while cases are rare in New England, rising water temperatures have increased risks in recent summers.

Health experts are urging swimmers to avoid the ocean with open cuts, clean any wounds immediately after exposure, and seek medical help quickly if signs of infection appear. One official admitted, “It scares the heck out of me,” highlighting how dangerous the bacteria can be despite its rarity.

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