Looking to enjoy Massachusetts’ beaches this summer? You’ll want to read this. In August 2025, Massachusetts health officials sounded the alarm after a swimmer in Cape Cod contracted a rare and dangerous ‘flesh-eating’ bacterial infection—scientifically known as Vibrio vulnificus. Here’s what residents, tourists, and seafood lovers need to know, including key safety tips and emerging trends.
What Is ‘Flesh-Eating’ Bacteria (Vibrio vulnificus)?
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, salty, or brackish coastal waters. It’s especially prevalent from May to October when water temperatures spike. The bacteria can enter the body through:
- Open wounds (cuts, abrasions, fresh tattoos, or piercings)
- Eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters
In severe cases, Vibrio vulnificus can cause necrotizing fasciitis—often called ‘flesh-eating disease’—which destroys tissue around an infection and can lead to life-threatening complications.
Why Are Cases Increasing in Massachusetts?
While most cases have historically occurred in the Gulf Coast states, Massachusetts has reported seven confirmed cases in recent years, with infections now appearing in places like Buzzards Bay and Cape Cod. Climate experts and physicians point to rising ocean temperatures linked to climate change, which create ideal breeding conditions for Vibrio bacteria.
Symptoms: What to Watch Out For
Symptoms may develop anywhere from a few hours to several days after exposure:
- Swelling, redness, and pain around a wound
- Fever, chills
- Blistering skin lesions, pus or discharge from wounds
- In severe cases: low blood pressure, severe infection, and rapid tissue destruction
If the infection spreads to the bloodstream or deeper tissues, it can progress alarmingly fast and may require amputation or intensive medical care. According to the CDC, up to 20% of severe cases can be fatal, sometimes within 1–2 days of symptom onset.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can contract Vibrio, but immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable:
- People with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or thalassemia
- Patients on immunosuppressive therapies
- Older adults
Healthy bathers and beachgoers face minimal risk if they have no open wounds and follow standard precautions.
How Can You Stay Safe? Key Prevention Tips
- Avoid swimming with open wounds (including new tattoos or piercings)
- Cover wounds with waterproof bandages if you must enter coastal or brackish water
- Wash wounds immediately with soap and clean water after ocean or seafood contact
- Don’t handle raw shellfish with cuts on your hands
- Skip raw or undercooked oysters and seafood, especially if you’re at higher risk
Is It Safe to Visit Massachusetts Beaches?
Yes—for most healthy individuals, the risk remains low. Local officials confirm beaches, including those at Cape Cod, remain open. However, those with increased vulnerability due to underlying health conditions should exercise extra caution.
Dr. Robbie Goldstein, Massachusetts Public Health Commissioner, urges vigilance:
“Heat waves and above-average water temperatures create favorable conditions for Vibrio bacteria. People with open wounds or vulnerable health should take special care during spring and summer beach trips.”
What Does This Mean for Massachusetts Residents and Visitors?
- Cases are still rare but rising. Pay attention to official alerts, especially from May to October.
- Immediate medical care is vital if infection is suspected—treatment delays can be deadly.
- Beaches are still safe with proper precautions.
