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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Vibrio vulnificus is surging this summer. The flesh-eating bacterium has killed eight people across Florida and Louisiana, with cases tied to open wounds exposed to seawater. People with liver disease, weakened immune systems, or diabetes face the highest risk, but experts say no one should expose an open wound to salt or brackish water.
Vibrio vulnificus is making a deadly impact this season. The flesh-eating bacterium — which thrives in warm, salty coastal waters — has killed eight people across Florida and Louisiana in 2026, with Louisiana alone reporting five deaths among nine confirmed cases. All Louisiana fatalities were linked to open wounds exposed to seawater, and most victims had pre-existing health conditions.
The bacteria earns its grim nickname by triggering necrotizing fasciitis, a rapid infection that destroys skin and tissue around a wound. Infections can turn fatal within just 1–2 days of symptom onset, and many survivors require intensive care or limb amputation. Warming coastal waters and events like hurricanes are expanding the bacteria's range beyond Gulf Coast states into the Northeast.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: With cases trending upward and the bacteria spreading to new regions, public awareness is critical. Anyone — regardless of health status — should keep open wounds out of seawater, and high-risk individuals should avoid raw shellfish entirely.
