Four people have died from flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus in Florida this year, including one resident from St. Johns County. According to the Florida Department of Health, 11 cases have been reported, with two more in Duval and St. Johns counties.
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that thrives in warm seawater and can be found on oysters and other shellfish. People typically get infected when they eat raw or undercooked shellfish. The risk of infection is higher during the summer months due to the warmer waters.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and skin infections. Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare but often underreported. Between 1988 and 2006, there were over 900 reported cases in Gulf Coast states.
To prevent infections, experts recommend not eating raw oysters or shellfish, thoroughly cooking them, and avoiding cross-contamination of foods. People should also avoid exposing open wounds to warm seawater and wear protective clothing when handling raw seafood.
If an infection is suspected, treatment involves antibiotics and may include amputation for severe cases. The Florida Department of Health has warned residents about the risks associated with Vibrio vulnificus and emphasized the importance of proper food safety measures.
Source: https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2025/07/15/fdoh-says-4-people-have-died-from-a-flesh-eating-bacteria-in-2025-including-a-st-johns-county-resident