News Summary
A man in Outer Banks, North Carolina has been hospitalized for over a week after contracting a Vibrio vulnificus infection from a minor leg cut. The dangerous bacterium can destroy tissue rapidly and may lead to fatalities within 48 hours. With 59 recorded Vibrio illnesses statewide this summer, health officials are urging caution in coastal waters as infections are linked to warmer temperatures and heavy rainfall, highlighting the importance of proactive measures against this growing health threat.
Outer Banks, North Carolina – A North Carolina man has been hospitalized for over a week after contracting a Vibrio vulnificus infection from a minor cut on his leg. This flesh-eating bacterium can destroy tissue and become fatal within 48 hours, raising serious concerns about the increasing prevalence of Vibrio infections in coastal areas during the warmer months.
As of July 31, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) reported a total of 59 Vibrio illnesses statewide, including one death. This figure is notably the second-highest midsummer total recorded in the past five years and comes before the usual peak season at the end of August. Of these reported cases, seven are specifically linked to the more severe Vibrio vulnificus, while over 50 are associated with other Vibrio strains, which typically result in less severe symptoms.
Vibrio bacteria thrive in brackish water, which occurs where fresh water meets salt water, particularly along the North Carolina coast. Scientists highlight that every water sample collected in the region today contains some variation of Vibrio, a stark contrast to the conditions observed two decades ago. The bacteria flourish in warmer sea temperatures, especially in the wake of recent heavy rainfall that dilutes salt levels and fosters bacterial growth.
Infections generally happen when individuals with open wounds, such as cuts or surgical incisions, enter brackish water or consume raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus may die, often within 1-2 days of symptom onset, making early recognition and treatment crucial.
Individuals at higher risk for Vibrio infections include those with:
- Open wounds or scrapes entering brackish water.
- Weakened immune systems.
- Consumption of raw or undercooked seafood.
To minimize the risk of infection, health officials recommend several precautions, including:
- Avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood.
- Taking showers with soap after exposure to the beach.
- Cleaning any cuts or wounds with hydrogen peroxide.
- Covering wounds with waterproof bandages before entering brackish water.
Symptoms of a Vibrio vulnificus infection can present within one to two days and include:
- Redness or swelling near a wound.
- Skin blisters or pain.
- Fever.
- Diarrhea.
- Vomiting.
- Chills.
- Discharge or discoloration at the wound site.
This year, North Carolina also recorded one death related to a non-Vibrio vulnificus infection. As the presence of Vibrio bacteria increases due to the combination of warmer sea temperatures and heavy rains, NCDHHS continually advises caution for those engaging in water activities.
In light of these warnings, it is imperative for residents and visitors to the Outer Banks area to wash thoroughly with soap and fresh water after swimming in salt water, and to promptly treat any wounds to help prevent infections. The ongoing rise in Vibrio cases highlights the importance of awareness and the need for proactive health measures during the summer months.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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: Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases NC Coast August 2025
- Wikipedia: Vibrio
- CBS17: 7 Cases of Flesh-Eating Bacteria Vibrio Vulnerificus Reported in North Carolina This Year
- Google Search: Flesh-eating Bacteria North Carolina
- WITN: Flesh-Eating Bacteria Sends Outer Banks Man to ICU
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bacteria
- WSOC TV: Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases Surge Southeast North Carolina
- 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.
