News Summary
Fishermen in Wanchese, North Carolina, express growing concerns as Vibrio vulnificus infections surge this summer, with health officials reporting 59 cases and one death. Elevated ocean temperatures and injuries from fishing activities raise alarms. Fishermen are taking preventive measures to protect themselves from this dangerous bacterium linked to severe health risks. Public health officials urge caution and education on prevention to safeguard the community during peak infection risks.
Wanchese, North Carolina – Concerns are mounting among local fishermen as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) reports a significant rise in cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections this summer. As of July 31, the state has documented 59 infections and one death attributed to this dangerous bacterium, which can lead to grave health complications when it enters through wounds.
This year, seven confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been reported, and health officials expect these numbers to increase as ocean temperatures remain elevated. Fishermen such as Marc Mitchem, who has worked the waters of Wanchese since 1984, have taken extra precautions to protect themselves, keeping bleach, gloves, and sanitizer readily available. Mitchem is particularly concerned for a close friend, a fellow shrimper, who is currently hospitalized due to a severe wound infection caused by the bacterium.
The infection is alarming for the local fishing community, especially with a rise in serious cases, including two deaths in Dare County in the last two years. Such cases have resulted from minor injuries, such as punctures from crab points, that quickly escalated into severe infections. Public health data indicate that Vibrio vulnificus can lead to severe tissue damage rapidly — often within hours — and poses an estimated 20% mortality rate, with death potentially occurring within two days of an infection. This bacterium is known for its potential to cause necrotizing fasciitis, commonly referred to as “flesh-eating disease,” although such severe outcomes are relatively rare.
Conditions Favoring Infection
Vibrio bacteria thrive in warm coastal and brackish waters, particularly when temperatures exceed 90°F. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Vibrio populations can double in warmer water, and spikes in infections are commonly seen between May and October. Factors such as heavy rainfall can alter water salinity, creating optimal conditions for the bacteria to flourish.
In the broader Southeast region, cases of Vibrio infections have increased, with both Florida and Louisiana reporting multiple deaths this summer due to the bacteria. This rising trend is prompting health officials to urge caution among fishermen and beachgoers alike.
Preventive Measures
Fishermen are advised to take several proactive steps to prevent infection. Key recommendations include wearing gloves while handling seafood, maintaining a first-aid kit, and ensuring any cuts are cleaned immediately and kept protected from exposure to brackish water. The state health department reinforces the importance of cooking seafood to an internal temperature of at least 145°F to minimize the risk of contracting an infection.
Individuals with open wounds are advised to avoid contact with potentially contaminated water and to shower thoroughly following exposure. If any wounds develop symptoms such as redness, swelling, or blistering within 24 hours of water exposure, immediate medical attention is essential.
Community Response
Community members express growing concern regarding the potential dangers posed by Vibrio infections, especially considering the recent deaths linked to the bacteria. Notably, Murray Bridges, known as the “Crabfather of Colington,” succumbed to a bacterial infection after exposure while crabbing; his case serves as a cautionary tale for local fishermen.
Public health officials are actively working to enhance awareness about these infections and promote preventive measures among local fishermen and beachgoers to reduce the risk of severe disease. They emphasize the critical need for education on the symptoms and treatment of Vibrio vulnificus infections in order to safeguard the community during this peak season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Man Hospitalized with Life-Threatening Vibrio Infection in Wanchese
Health Warnings Issued Amid Rising Vibrio Infections in NC
Man Hospitalized Due to Vibrio vulnificus Infection in Outer Banks
North Carolina Man Hospitalized Due to Vibrio Vulnificus Infection
Health Officials Warn of Rising Vibrio vulnificus Infections in Outer Banks
Outer Banks Man Hospitalized Due to Flesh-Eating Bacteria Infection
Additional Resources
- WRAL: Outer Banks Vibrio Risk Increase
- Wikipedia: Vibrio vulnificus
- WYMT: Fisherman Fighting Flesh-Eating Bacteria Infection
- Google Search: Vibrio infections
- Pilot Online: Legendary Outer Banks Crabber Dies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vibrio vulnificus
- News Break: Vibrio Infections Rise in Outer Banks
- Google News: Vibrio vulnificus
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
