New data from the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) reveals four deaths in 2025 due to Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria. The cases were reported in Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties, with no fatalities in Central Florida. So far this year, there have been 11 confirmed cases.
The FDOH warns that those with compromised immune systems, liver disease, or open wounds are at higher risk for Vibrio vulnificus. The bacteria can be found in warm, brackish seawater and can cause illness when ingested or exposed through open wounds.
Symptoms of infection include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, chills, fast heart rate, confusion, disorientation, and even death. The FDOH previously issued a statewide alert after Hurricane Milton in October 2024, urging residents to avoid floodwaters due to the increased risk of Vibrio vulnificus.
Historical data shows that cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been on the rise since 2016, with 82 reported cases and 19 deaths in 2024. The FDOH advises residents to be cautious when swimming or wading in warm coastal waters, especially during strong storms.
Source: https://www.clickorlando.com/news/florida/2025/07/16/florida-department-of-health-reports-4-deaths-from-flesh-eating-bacteria-in-2025