A deadly flesh-eating bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, has claimed four lives in Louisiana, prompting health officials to warn residents of a summer spike in infections. The state’s Department of Health confirmed 17 cases so far this year, with 75% linked to open wounds exposed to seawater.
The bacteria thrive in warmer months and can cause illness through open wounds or eating raw seafood. Individuals with chronic health conditions such as liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or immunocompromised individuals are at a higher risk of severe illness or death.
Symptoms include gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and fever, as well as wound or bloodstream infections that may lead to blistering skin lesions, amputation, or death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that about 1 in 5 people with Vibrio vulnificus die within 48 hours of becoming ill.
To stay safe, residents are advised to:
– Avoid brackish or saltwater with open wounds or cover wounds with waterproof bandages
– Thoroughly clean cuts exposed to water or raw seafood
– Wear protective gloves when handling raw shellfish
– Not eat raw or undercooked oysters or seafood, especially in high-risk groups
– Wash hands with soap after handling raw seafood
More information and prevention tips can be found on the CDC’s Vibrio page.
Source: https://www.wafb.com/2025/07/31/deadly-flesh-eating-bacteria-kills-4-louisiana