A second death this year in Florida has been attributed to Vibrio vulnificus, a notorious bacterium often referred to as the "flesh-eating" bacteria. This recent death occurred in Marion County, located in the central part of the state.
The Florida Department of Health has updated its records, reporting a total of 14 confirmed cases and two fatalities as of the latest data released last Thursday.
The other fatality was reported in Palm Beach County, though FOX 35 Orlando noted that officials have not disclosed the infection sources for the deceased nor whether they had any preexisting conditions.
Current Case Distribution Across Counties
Both Marion and Palm Beach counties have recorded two cases each, along with one death per county. The remaining cases are spread across Bay, Brevard, Hillsborough, Lee, Miami-Dade, Okaloosa, Polk, and St. Johns counties.
The first fatality of the year involved a Palm Beach resident aged between 80 and 84 years old. At that time, Florida had documented 11 infections, a number that has since increased with new cases identified over subsequent weeks.
Bacteria's Natural Habitat and Infection Routes
Vibrio vulnificus naturally thrives in warm, salty, and brackish coastal waters. Infection can occur when open wounds, cuts, scrapes, recent tattoos, piercings, or surgical incisions come into contact with contaminated water.
Another common infection route is consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. While the bacteria cannot be transmitted from person to person, it can cause severe and rapidly progressing infections, potentially leading to tissue destruction around wounds and, in some cases, necessitating amputations.
Health Implications and Risk Factors
Symptoms of infection may include fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, skin redness, swelling, discoloration, and blistering. If the bacteria enter the bloodstream, it can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure and potentially fatal septic shock.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, especially those with chronic liver diseases, are at higher risk of complications. Authorities advise against consuming raw oysters, emphasize thorough cooking of shellfish, and recommend avoiding coastal waters with open wounds.
Florida had previously issued an alert due to the early emergence of infections ahead of the peak summer heat. The state concluded 2025 with 33 cases and five deaths, while 2024 saw 82 infections and 19 fatalities.
Understanding Vibrio vulnificus in Florida
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that lives in warm, salty, and brackish waters. It is known for causing severe infections, often referred to as "flesh-eating" due to its potential to destroy tissue around wounds.
How can someone get infected with Vibrio vulnificus?
Infection can occur through contact with contaminated water via open wounds or through eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters.
What precautions can be taken to prevent Vibrio vulnificus infection?
To prevent infection, avoid consuming raw oysters, ensure shellfish is thoroughly cooked, and refrain from entering coastal waters with open cuts or wounds.