A recent outbreak of flesh-eating bacteria in Louisiana has resulted in six deaths, all related to eating oysters harvested from the state’s coast. According to the Louisiana Health Department, 22 residents have been hospitalized with vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria that thrives in warm, brackish waters.
Most infections occur when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water, but some cases may involve eating raw oysters. Four of those infected have died, including two people from outside Louisiana who consumed oysters at separate restaurants. However, state officials have not confirmed whether the deaths were caused by eating or exposure through open wounds.
The spike in vibrio infections is unusual, with 17 hospitalizations reported on July 31, compared to an average annual rate of seven infections and one death since 2015. Experts say it’s hard to pinpoint the cause, but warmer Gulf temperatures and increased human activity may be contributing factors.
Direct wound exposure to brackish waters increases the risk of infection, while certain health conditions such as stomach and liver problems can worsen vibrio infections. “You can almost watch it spread,” said microbiologist Paul Gulig, describing the rapid progression of the disease.
Source: https://lailluminator.com/2025/08/26/louisiana-flesh-eating-bacteria