Health authorities in Florida have confirmed that four people have died this year due to infection with Vibrio vulnificus, a rare but highly dangerous flesh-eating bacterium found in warm, brackish coastal waters.
According to the Florida Department of Health, 11 total infections have been recorded in 2025. The bacterium typically enters the body through open wounds while swimming or through the consumption of raw shellfish, especially oysters.
What Is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus belongs to the Vibrio family and causes a disease known as vibriosis, which may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and severe skin infections. According to the CDC, symptoms of skin infection include fever, redness, swelling, pain, and fluid discharge.
If the bacterium enters the bloodstream, it can trigger septic shock, skin blistering, and even necrotizing fasciitis, a life-threatening condition that destroys surrounding tissue — earning it the nickname “flesh-eating bacteria.”
Who Is at Risk?
While healthy individuals often experience mild symptoms, people with weakened immune systems, liver disease, diabetes, or cancer face significantly higher risk. About 1 in 5 patients dies within 1–2 days of symptom onset.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis is typically made through cultures of blood, stool, or wound samples. Treatment includes rehydration, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgical cleaning of the wound or even amputation.
Public Health Warnings
Authorities advise:
- Avoid swimming in warm, brackish water if you have open wounds.
- Do not consume raw shellfish, particularly oysters.
- Use gloves when handling seafood.
The Florida health department continues to monitor water quality and raise awareness to prevent further infections.
Source: Fox News, iefimerida.gr
