A deadly “flesh-eating” bacteria has been found in a series of ponds and bays on a New York island, with experts warning infections can become fatal within hours. Scientists have identified “hotspots” of vibrio vulnificus – a dangerous pathogen known by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as flesh-eating bacteria – in multiple sites across Long Island. The findings were revealed this week by Professor Christopher Gobler of Stony Brook University, who said the bacteria is now present in several specific bodies of water. “Bacteria known as vibrio vulnificus, also known by the CDC as a flesh-eating bacteria, is present and a risk in our waters,” he said. He warned of the speed and severity of infection, adding: “It’s a very, very serious infection, it gets into open wounds – people who are infected with this bacteria have a 20% chance of dying within just 48 hours.” The bacteria has been detected in Sagaponack Pond, Mecox Bay and Georgica Pond, with Gobler confirming it has now been found in several additional ponds and bays …