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Florida is once again facing the threat of Vibrio vulnificus, commonly known as the "flesh-eating bacteria," which has already resulted in five deaths and 23 confirmed cases in 2025, according to health authorities.
Deaths and distribution of cases
The reports from the Florida Department of Health detail that deaths were recorded in Bay (2), Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties.
In total, infections have been confirmed in 16 counties, which reflects the widespread presence of the bacteria in the warm, brackish marine waters of the state.
In 2024, Florida reported a record of 19 deaths and more than 80 cases, figures that authorities attributed to the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton, whose flooding and overflowing created favorable conditions for the proliferation of bacteria in coastal areas.
A persistent threat in summer
Vibrio vulnificus inhabits warm, shallow marine environments. It can enter the body through open wounds exposed to seawater or by consuming contaminated raw seafood, especially oysters.
The initial symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and chills.
In severe cases, the skin infection can lead to lesions, ulcers, and necrosis, sometimes necessitating amputations. The rapid progression of the bacteria can also result in septic shock and death if not treated urgently.
Infectious disease experts warn that individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or liver ailments, as well as those with weakened immune systems, are more susceptible to experiencing severe complications.
Prevention and Recommendations
Although it is a rare infection, authorities emphasize that its high lethality necessitates taking extra precautions.
The Florida Department of Health and the CDC recommend:
Avoid swimming with open or recent wounds in saltwater or brackish water.
Do not consume raw oysters or shellfish.
Immediately wash any wound that has been in contact with seawater.
Use protective gloves when handling raw seafood.
Seek immediate medical attention for any suspicious symptoms.
Experts insist that doctors must maintain a "high clinical suspicion" when treating patients with severe gastrointestinal issues or rapidly evolving infections after contact with the sea.
The risk after storms and hurricanes
Experts agree that extreme weather phenomena, such as hurricanes, increase the risk of infections due to flooding and the overflow of contaminated water.
Last year, following Hurricane Milton, state authorities issued special alerts regarding the bacteria, which has also been detected in sargassum and floating microplastics in the Gulf of Mexico, exacerbating the environmental risk.
A study conducted in 2023 by the Atlantic University of Florida demonstrated that the bacteria can adhere to seaweed and plastic waste, forming a "perfect pathogenic storm" with the potential to impact both marine life and human health.
A threat that does not relent
Although the bacteria is not transmitted from person to person, the surge in cases in just six months raises concerns among authorities, especially now that high temperatures and the massive influx of tourists to the beaches increase exposure.
With recent years' history and the confirmation of new deaths in 2025, experts warn that epidemiological surveillance and prevention will be key to preventing the "flesh-eating bacteria" from claiming more lives in Florida for the remainder of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions about the "flesh-eating bacteria" in Florida
What is "flesh-eating bacteria" and how does it affect people?
The "flesh-eating bacteria" is the popular name for Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that inhabits warm and brackish marine waters. It can cause severe infections when it enters the body through open wounds or by consuming contaminated raw seafood, particularly oysters. Initial symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and chills, and in severe cases, it can lead to skin lesions, necrosis, and septic shock.
What are the recommendations to prevent infection by Vibrio vulnificus?
Authorities recommend avoiding swimming with open wounds in salt or brackish water, not consuming raw seafood, especially oysters, and promptly washing any wound that has come into contact with seawater. Additionally, it is advised to wear protective gloves when handling raw seafood and to seek immediate medical attention if any suspicious symptoms arise.
Why do hurricanes increase the risk of infections from "flesh-eating bacteria"?
Hurricanes, by causing flooding and overflowing of contaminated waters, create conditions conducive to the proliferation of Vibrio vulnificus in coastal areas. Authorities have observed an increase in the number of infections following extreme weather events, highlighting the need to take extra precautions in such circumstances.
Who is more vulnerable to complications from Vibrio vulnificus?
Individuals with chronic ailments, such as diabetes or liver conditions, as well as those with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to experiencing serious complications from Vibrio vulnificus infection. The rapid progression of the bacteria in these individuals can lead to severe conditions such as septic shock and death if not treated urgently.
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