An alarming increase in fatalities has been recorded in Florida and Louisiana this year, where Vibrio vulnificus, a harmful bacterium, has claimed seven lives. This bacterium is notorious for causing severe, potentially fatal infections.
WASHINGTON — Known for its flesh-eating capabilities, Vibrio vulnificus has led to the deaths of seven individuals in 2023, striking fear across communities in Florida and Louisiana due to its severe and life-threatening nature.
This formidable bacterium typically thrives in warm, brackish waters. Infection occurs most commonly when someone ingests raw or improperly cooked shellfish, such as oysters, though direct exposure through open wounds in contaminated water can also be a transmission route.
With the peak tourist season underway along the Gulf Coast, health officials are urging visitors to remain vigilant and take protective measures against infection.
Louisiana, in particular, has experienced a worrying uptick in cases, reporting nine infections and five deaths this year alone. This marks a significant rise compared to the state’s usual average of one death annually, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.
All nine Louisiana patients were hospitalized, all had underlying health conditions, and all contracted the bacteria through wound exposure to seawater, officials said.
Florida has recorded at least 14 cases and two deaths.
What is “flesh-eating” bacteria?
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, salty and brackish coastal water, particularly along the Gulf Coast.
It is not a new threat and has been present in U.S. waters for decades, but cases tend to rise during the summer because of the warmer water temperatures between May and October.
There are two main ways to get infected by Vibrio vulnificus. One way is through eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Another common way is by exposing an open wound to contaminated seawater.
It cannot spread from person to person.
The bacteria earns its nickname because severe wound infections can cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is a rapid destruction of skin and soft tissue around the wound. In serious cases, amputation may be needed to stop the spread.
About one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus die, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours of getting sick, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Who is most at risk?
People with weakened immune systems, liver disease, diabetes or other chronic health conditions face the highest risk of serious illness.
Healthy people can be infected but typically experience milder symptoms.
All nine of Louisiana’s 2026 cases involved patients with underlying health conditions, according to the state health department.
How can you protect yourself?
- Avoid exposing open wounds, cuts or broken skin to seawater or brackish water.
- Do not eat raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters.
- If you develop a rapidly worsening skin infection after ocean exposure, seek medical attention immediately.
- If you have a weakened immune system or chronic illness, consider avoiding saltwater exposure altogether during summer months.