UPDATE: A rare and deadly flesh-eating bacteria has claimed the lives of four people in Florida this year, according to the Florida Department of Health. The alarming rise in fatalities is linked to the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, which thrives in warm saltwater and poses serious health risks to those exposed.
This urgent health crisis is unfolding as Florida reports a total of 11 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2023, with officials warning that the bacteria can enter the body through open cuts or by consuming raw shellfish. The consequences are dire—infected individuals may experience severe gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, high heart rates, and disorientation. In extreme cases, the infection can escalate to necrotizing fasciitis, leading to rapid destruction of muscle and tissue.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms that approximately one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus die. Those with weakened immune systems face the greatest danger. Officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid warm saltwater and refrain from eating raw shellfish, particularly in light of the increased risk associated with summer temperatures.
The situation is becoming increasingly critical as records show Florida experienced a spike in infections and fatalities last year, with 19 deaths and 82 cases reported—almost double the number of cases from the previous year. Experts believe that climate change is contributing to these trends, as rising temperatures and changing salinity levels in coastal waters create ideal conditions for bacteria growth.
As the world grapples with the impact of climate change, a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that the financial burden of Vibrio infections could escalate from $2.6 billion in 1995 to between $6.1 billion and $8.6 billion by 2090. The bacteria’s adaptability poses further risks, as recent studies suggest that Vibrio pathogens are acquiring new traits, including the ability to adhere to microplastics.
Floridians are urged to take immediate precautions. Health officials strongly recommend avoiding exposure to warm saltwater or brackish water if any cuts, scrapes, or wounds are present and advise against consuming raw shellfish.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents are advised to stay informed about health advisories and potential outbreaks. The urgency of this health alert cannot be overstated—stay safe and vigilant, as the potential risks associated with Vibrio vulnificus are very real and present.