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Florida health officials have confirmed 13 cases of the dangerous “flesh-eating” bacterial infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus across 11 counties in 2025, with eight deaths reported so far this year. This marks a concerning trend in the Gulf Coast region, where warmer waters have fostered an increase in infections. Last year, Florida recorded even higher numbers with 82 cases and 19 deaths. Louisiana is also experiencing above-average cases, reporting 17 infections and four deaths this year, while the U.S. typically sees 150 to 200 Vibrio infections annually, mostly in Gulf Coast states such as Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium naturally found in coastal waters, particularly warm, salty, brackish environments. It can infect people through open wounds exposed during swimming or by consumption of contaminated raw shellfish like oysters. The bacteria thrive especially in warmer waters, which act as incubators for growth and increase risks during summer months. Environmental factors such as plankton blooms, flooding, hurricanes, and other natural disasters can also contribute to its spread.
Symptoms of infection vary depending on exposure type but may include severe skin infections that cause intense pain, swelling, redness, high fevers, and quickly progressing tissue death, medically known as necrotizing fasciitis or “flesh-eating” disease. When the bacterium enters the bloodstream, it can cause life-threatening illness with fever, chills, septic shock, blistering skin lesions, and about half of bloodstream infections are fatal. Vulnerable groups include older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic liver disease.
Health officials advise prevention by avoiding swimming in open bodies of water with open wounds and refraining from eating raw shellfish, especially for those at higher risk. Mild cases require hydration, but severe infections need immediate antibiotics and often surgical removal of infected tissue for survival. Despite the alarming nature of the bacteria, experts emphasize that infections are rare and should not cause widespread panic.
For the most current information, individuals are encouraged to consult state and regional health department updates regularly.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes current public health information as of 2025 and does not substitute professional medical advice. If you suspect an infection or develop symptoms after exposure to coastal waters or seafood, seek immediate medical attention.
