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Four people have died so far in 2025 after contracting the dangerous Vibrio vulnificus, known as "the flesh-eating bacteria," in four different counties in the state of Florida.
The authorities have not revealed the identities of the victims.
The Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium found in brackish or salty waters that can cause serious, and even fatal, infections, especially during the warmer months of the year.
According to data from the Florida Department of Health, as of July 21, 2025, 11 infections have been confirmed, of which four have been fatal.
In which counties did the deaths occur?
Bay County:
A death caused by Vibrio vulnificus has been reported. This is the first fatality from this cause in this county in the last three years, which has drawn the attention of local authorities, as revealed by Univision.
Broward County:
A person died after being infected with the bacteria. Although it has not been specified which beach the infection occurred at, it is suspected that it could have been at Deerfield Beach or Fort Lauderdale, two of the most popular beaches in the county.
Hillsborough County:
A death has also been confirmed so far in 2025. In the last two years, this county has reported 12 cases of infection, with a total of four deaths, indicating a concerning pattern.
St. Johns County:
It is the only county that has recorded two infections so far this year, with one confirmed death. This region is home to St. Augustine, a popular tourist destination during the summer.
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
The Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria found in marine environments, particularly in warm, shallow waters.
It can enter the body through open wounds or by consuming contaminated raw seafood, such as oysters.
Dr. Liz Jaramillo, a specialist in infectious diseases, warns that people with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or liver conditions, are at a higher risk of developing severe complications.
Symptoms can appear quickly and may include:
-Intense pain in the affected area.
-Redness, swelling, and blisters.
-Fever and chills.
-Hypotension and septic shock.
-In severe cases, tissue necrosis that requires amputation.
Recommendations to prevent infection
The Florida Department of Health has issued a series of preventive recommendations, especially aimed at those visiting beaches or consuming seafood:
Avoid swimming with open or recent wounds in saltwater or brackish water.
-Do not consume raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters.
-Wash thoroughly any wound that has been in contact with seawater.
-Seek medical attention immediately at a healthcare facility if you notice any signs of infection.
A persistent threat in the summer
Although cases of Vibrio vulnificus are not new in Florida, the lethality and concentration of infections in just half a year have raised concerns among health authorities.
With rising temperatures and the influx of tourists to coastal areas, experts insist on maintaining precautionary measures during the high season.
The rapid progression of this infection can seriously compromise health if not treated promptly.
For this reason, prevention and immediate medical attention are essential to avoid further deaths for the remainder of 2025.
Experts fear that the number of affected individuals will increase in the coming weeks.
There is no evidence that it is transmitted from person to person, although its effects can be devastating: vomiting, fever, sepsis, and soft tissue necrosis, which in some cases necessitates amputations or may lead to death if not treated promptly.
In 2024, Florida recorded a record of 19 deaths and 82 infections, a figure that authorities linked to the extreme conditions caused by Hurricane Helene in September and by Milton in October.
The subsequent floods would have contributed to the proliferation of the bacteria, especially in coastal areas.
In October of last year, following Hurricane Milton, health authorities reiterated the risk of Vibrio vulnificus, due to the presence of contaminated water in the floods.
In June 2023, a study by 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 due to Vibrio vulnificus, according to data from the state Department of Health.
Authorities emphasize prevention as the main tool to avoid further infections, and stress that doctors should maintain a "high suspicion" of Vibrio vulnificus infection in cases of severe gastrointestinal symptoms or septic shock in patients who have been in contact with the sea or consumed raw seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions about the "flesh-eating" bacteria Vibrio vulnificus in Florida
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that inhabits brackish or salty waters and can cause severe infections, especially during the warmer months of the year. This bacterium can enter the body through open wounds or by consuming contaminated raw seafood, such as oysters. People with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe complications.
How many people have died from Vibrio vulnificus in Florida this year?
By July 21, 2025, four deaths due to Vibrio vulnificus have been confirmed in Florida. The cases have been reported in Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties.
How can the transmission of the "flesh-eating" bacteria be prevented?
To prevent infection by Vibrio vulnificus, it is advised to avoid swimming with open wounds in salt or brackish waters, not to consume raw or undercooked seafood, and to thoroughly wash any wound that has been in contact with seawater. It is also crucial to seek medical attention immediately if signs of infection appear.
Why has concern about Vibrio vulnificus increased in Florida?
Concerns have risen because cases of Vibrio vulnificus have shown significant concentration and lethality so far this year, which has drawn the attention of health authorities, especially during the summer months when elevated temperatures promote the proliferation of the bacteria in warm waters.
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