Flesh-Eating Bacteria Could Take NJ Fisherman’s Limbs

Angel Perez was crabbing in off Matts Landing, in Cumberland County. The next day, his leg started to swell. After that, all his limbs became swollen, his skin was blistering, and doctors are facing the decision to amputate three - or possibly all four - of his limbs.

Doctors say Perez developed Vibrio necrotizing fasciitis, a flesh-eating bacteria that can be contracted in salty water.

If you're worried about contracting the flesh-eating bacteria...unfortunately the only fail-safe is to stay out of the water.

NJ Department of Environmental Protection spokesman Larry Hajna says while the bacteria is not uncommon, the chance of contracting the disease is rare. Cumberland County and state health officials say they are not aware of any unusual danger from the water, other than the typical bacteria that lives in the water for this time.

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