A rare flesh-eating bacterium, Vibrio vulnificus, has been linked to four fatalities in Florida this year, according to state health officials. The deaths come as cases decline from 82 reported last year, when Hurricane Helene was blamed for the spike.
The bacteria have been confirmed in multiple counties, including Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns. While Vibrio vulnificus infections are uncommon, with around 80,000 cases and 100 related deaths annually in the US, they pose a significant risk to those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.
Infections typically occur from eating raw oysters or shellfish, exposing open wounds to warm salt or brackish water, or through no apparent transmission. Diagnosis involves stool, wound, or blood cultures, and symptoms can include gastrointestinal issues, skin infections, and bloodstream infections that can be fatal in severe cases.
Health experts recommend avoiding raw oysters and cooking seafood thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection. Those with compromised immune systems or chronic liver disease are particularly vulnerable. Immediate antibiotic treatment is critical, along with wound care to prevent complications like amputation.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/florida-vibrio-vulnificus-cases-2025-deaths-decline-danger-remains