Notes from the Field: Severe Vibrio vulnificus Infections During Heat Waves — Three Eastern U.S. States, July–August 2023

• DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7304a3
• Publication Date: 2024-02-01T15:28:50Z
• Authors: Michael J. Hughes; Eileen Flaherty; Nicole Lee; Amy Robbins; Daniel L. Weller
• Keywords: Vibrio vulnificus; Heat wave

Vibrio vulnificus, a waterborne and foodborne pathogen, lives in estuarine environments thrives warmer waters.V. vulnificus can infect open wounds through contact with salt water, brackish or raw seafood; infections also occur after consuming undercooked seafood.In the United States, 150-200 V. are reported to CDC annually, approximately 20% of which fatal.*During June-August 2023, widespread heat waves above-average sea surface temperatures occurred States (1).During July-August public health officials three eastern U.S. states (Connecticut, New York, North Carolina) were notified associated exposure coastal waters seafood, most severe led septic shock death.This report describes among residents these during 2023 waves.