Four people have died this year from flesh-eating bacteria in Florida's beaches

Four people have died so far in 2025 in Florida due to infections caused by the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, commonly known as "flesh-eating bacteria," as confirmed by the Department of Health in a public notice.

Health authorities have warned of a possible increase in cases during the summer, due to the ideal temperature conditions in the state's coastal waters.

In these seven months, 11 cases of infection have been recorded, and experts fear that the number will increase in the coming weeks.

Vibrio vulnificus naturally inhabits warm and saline waters, and it can enter the human body through open wounds in contact with the sea or by consuming raw shellfish, especially oysters.

"People with open wounds may be exposed to this bacteria through direct contact with seawater," warned the Department, as reported by the agency EFE.

It was also emphasized that there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission, although its effects can be devastating: vomiting, fever, sepsis, and necrosis of soft tissues, which can in some cases lead to amputations or result in death if not treated quickly.

Last year, Florida recorded a record 19 deaths and 82 infections, a figure that authorities linked to the extreme conditions caused by Hurricane Helene in September.

The subsequent floods would have contributed to the proliferation of the bacteria, especially in coastal areas.

Experts recommend taking extra precautions, especially for those with a compromised immune system or those suffering from liver, kidney, or autoimmune diseases.

People with recent wounds should avoid entering the sea, and raw seafood should be consumed with caution or avoided altogether.

The warning follows other alerts issued in recent years.

In October of last year, following the passage of Hurricane Milton, health authorities reiterated the risk of Vibrio vulnificus, due to the presence of contaminated waters in the flooding.

In June 2023, a study from the Florida Atlantic University revealed the high presence of this bacteria in marine algae and sargassum, which stretches from West Africa to the Gulf of Mexico.

Researchers also discovered that the bacteria have the ability to adhere to floating microplastics, creating a "perfect pathogenic storm" with the potential to impact both marine life and human health.

Although it is an uncommon infection, experts warn that it may be underreported and that its lethality requires greater vigilance from healthcare professionals.

In 2021, Florida reported at least eight deaths and more than 20 infections from Vibrio vulnificus, according to data from the state Health Department.

The authorities insist on prevention as the main tool to avoid further infections and emphasize that doctors should have a "high suspicion" of Vibrio vulnificus infection in patients with severe gastrointestinal symptoms or septic shock who have been in contact with the sea or consumed raw seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Flesh-Eating Bacteria Vibrio vulnificus in Florida