“Flesh eating” bacteria is back in Florida: what you need to know to stay safe
Four Floridians have died this year from Vibrio vulnificus, a deadly microbe thriving in warming coastal waters.
Florida’s coastline isn’t just heating up – it’s turning hostile. So far in 2025, four people in the state are said to have died from Vibrio vulnificus, an aggressive flesh-eating bacterium that thrives in warm, salty or brackish water and in raw shellfish like oysters.
Infections are rare, but appear to be rising. Florida Health officials have logged 11 confirmed cases so far in 2025, following a record-breaking 2024 when 82 people were infected and 19 died. Experts link the spike to hurricanes and warmer waters, which allow the bacteria to thrive longer and spread further.
How does the bacteria enter the body?
As stated, the bacteria lurks in warm salt or brackish water, especially after storms push seawater inland.
It can enter the body through open wounds, or from eating raw shellfish, particularly oysters. For people with liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems, it can be fatal.
What are the symptoms?
The associated symptoms can hit quickly. This can include fever, vomiting, high heart rate, confusion, and intense pain around an infected wound. In severe cases, tissue rapidly dies, and amputation or intensive care may follow. One in five patients doesn’t survive.
Where are the latest fatal cases?
Counties reporting deaths this year include Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns. Last year, Pinellas was worst hit, with 15 cases and three deaths.
How can I stay safe?
The guidance says you should skip the raw oysters. Also, don’t swim with cuts or scrapes, and wash thoroughly after water exposure. If symptoms appear, seek medical help immediately.
This bacteria isn’t new, but climate change is giving it more room to grow. So if the water’s warm and the storm’s just passed, think twice before jumping in.
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