Researchers have issued a serious warning for Long Island residents as evidence grows that flesh-eating bacteria are lurking in local waters. According to a report by the NY Post, Dr. Christopher Gobler, a professor and ecologist in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences at Stony brook University, recently announced that his team has identified several hotspots where the bacteria are present. “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,” Gobler told reporters. He emphasized the gravity of the situation by noting, “It’s a very, very serious infection, it gets into open wounds — people who are infected with this bacteria have a 20% chance of dying within just 48 hours.” This specific type of bacteria is a halophile, which means it is salt-loving and thrives in warm, brackish water where freshwater rivers meet the sea. Researchers have been studying the bacteria since it was first detected in the Long Island Sound in 2023. That year, three people tragically died from infections linked to the bacteria. No deaths have been reported since, but the risk is something you should take seriously as summer temperatures continue to rise. Just the term ‘flesh-eating’ is good enough to keep me away from any water According to the Cleveland Clinic, Vibrio vulnificus can enter your system in two primary ways: by consuming uncooked or undercooked shellfish or through exposure to seawater if you have an open wound or break in your skin. The symptoms of an infection are aggressive and can appear suddenly, often within 24 hours of contact. If you suspect you have been exposed, you should watch for fever, chills, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin issues like redness, swelling, or painful, fluid-filled blisters. Because the infection can lead to sepsis, shock, and tissue destruction, the Cleveland Clinic stresses that you must go to an emergency room immediately if you believe you are infected. Flesh-eating bacteria found in Long Island waters leave victims with 20% chance of dying in 48 hoursNitrogen runoff from Suffolk County’s roughly 360,000 aging cesspools and septic systems are leaching directly into the region’s waterways, causing harmful algae blooms. East…— Leslie Mack (@lesliemack) April 23, 2026 The spread of these bacteria on Long Island is being driven by a combination of factors. Dr. Gobler pointed to what he describes as a perfect toxic storm of climate change, nitrogen runoff, and algae blooms. The region’s approximately 360,000 aging septic systems and cesspools are leaching nitrogen into the waterways, which feeds harmful algae blooms. As these blooms grow, they deplete oxygen levels in the water and create an environment where these bacteria can flourish. Beyond the threat of infection, these algae blooms are causing other environmental issues. Researchers found that areas such as Southold, East Quogue, and the western half of Shinnecock Bay are dealing with algae that contaminate shellfish with a neurotoxin. This toxin is described as being 1,000 times more poisonous than cyanide, which has caused significant damage to the local oyster industry. FLESH EATING BACTERIA WITH A 20% CHANCE OF DYING IN 48 HOURS?!?! Honestly people have become so reckless they'd probably still find a way to downplay it! THIS IS FINE! pic.twitter.com/Mm8p3fqPqP— Ann Marie Pincivero (@ampincivero) April 23, 2026 Furthermore, the impact isn’t limited to humans. Dr. Gobler noted that there have been instances on Long Island where dogs have become sick or even died after drinking water from affected lakes. He also provided a clear recommendation, stating, “If someone’s immunocompromised, or elderly and they have open wounds in summer, you may want to stay out of the water.” It is important to remember that while these infections are rare, they are incredibly dangerous when they do occur. Medical professionals emphasize that you should never wait for symptoms of this infection to improve on their own. Antibiotics and medical interventions, such as wound debridement or even amputation in severe cases, are often necessary to save a patient’s life. Just please don't 'COVID-26' us…— Lance Owen (@LanceOOfficial) April 22, 2026 To protect yourself, it is best to avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters, and to keep any open wounds protected with waterproof coverings if you are going to be in or near brackish or seawater. Always wash your hands after handling raw seafood, and ensure that cooked and raw shellfish are kept separate to prevent cross-contamination. By staying informed and taking these precautions, you can better navigate the risks presented by these changing coastal conditions. However, you should also be careful of any waterways near human sewage runoff to prevent bacterial infections. In fact, changing weather conditions are leading to the bloom of many poisonous elements, so be informed and wary.