A POTENTIALLY fatal flesh-eating bacteria has killed multiple people in Florida this year.
Health officials are warning Americans about the risk of Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria found in water that can kill quickly after infection.
The flesh-eating bacteria is primarily found in Florida[/caption]
The bacteria sickness becomes more common as water gets warmer[/caption]
Swimming with an open wound or scratch and eating raw seafood can put anyone at risk of catching the sickness.
The microorganisms are typically found in brackish waters, where salt and fresh water mix.
As the water gets warmer – a common occurrence in the late summer months – Vibrio vulnificus becomes more common.
Fever, abdominal pain, and a fever are some of the symptoms of the potentially dangerous bacteria.
Rashes or streaks around the open wound can also be a sign.
Last year, 19 people died in Florida from infections.
So far in 2025, four people have died, and 11 people have caught the bacteria.
“You can get it by entering the water with an open wound or even just a scratch on your foot or leg,” University of South Florida professor John Sinnott told WITI.
The USF teacher said that the state’s extreme weather patterns increased the case toll exponentially last year due to hurricanes.
“People were trying to rescue pets or belongings,” Sinnott told the outlet.
“They weren’t thinking about what was happening to their legs or feet.”
Individuals who have diabetes, liver diseases, chronic kidney failure or who are immunocompromised are at increased risk, according to officials.
Experts also warn of raw shellfish, which is one of the most common ways individuals contract the bacteria.
Other states such as Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama are also at risk.
“Vibrio vulnificus infections cause severe complications quickly,” the Cleveland Clinic wrote.
The signs of Vibrio vulnificus
Since the sickness can come on quickly, its important to be aware of the symptoms.
- Chills
- Skin redness
- blisters on the skin
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Fast heart rate
- Fever
Source: Cleveland Clinic
“You shouldn’t wait for a Vibrio vulnificus infection to go away on its own.
The Florida Health Department claims that bloodstream infections of the bacteria are fatal around 50% of the time, with officials warning not to leave similar symptoms unchecked.
But the uncommon bacteria is underreported, according to the agency, meaning that the number of patients could be higher.
“A healthcare provider needs to treat it immediately with antibiotics, wound debridement and, sometimes, amputation. It can be fatal quickly,” the clinic continued.
“Vibrio vulnificus is a rare but serious bacterial infection. The symptoms get worse quickly and can be fatal in days if left untreated.”
The Florida Health Department claimed that the sickness is underreported, meaning more cases could be possible[/caption]
