As of this year, four people who contracted infections from Vibrio vulnificus have died in Florida.
The state’s health department confirmed these fatalities in a recent notice posted online.
So far in 2025, 11 individuals have been reported to have infections caused by this bacterium.
Vibrio vulnificus belongs to a wider group of Vibrio bacteria that are commonly found in coastal waters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This bacterium thrives in warm brackish waters and can enter the body through open wounds, especially while swimming.
Raw shellfish, particularly oysters, also pose a risk for potential infections, Florida Health warns.
Although infections are relatively uncommon, Vibrio vulnificus can lead to severe symptoms that include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and serious skin infections, the health department cautions.
Skin infections caused by Vibrio can manifest as fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration, and fluid drainage, as noted on the CDC’s website.
Typically, healthy individuals may only experience mild symptoms, but those with weakened immune systems or chronic liver issues might face more serious health challenges.
Florida Health indicates that if Vibrio vulnificus enters the bloodstream, it can lead to severe illnesses characterized by fever, chills, and potentially deadly skin lesions.
About half of these bloodstream infections can be fatal.
In some cases, this can result in necrotizing fasciitis, a condition where tissue around the infection dies, which is why Vibrio vulnificus is sometimes labeled as a “meat-eating bacteria.”
Florida Health has yet to confirm any cases of person-to-person transmission.
Diagnosis and treatment
Health officials diagnose bacterial infections by culturing samples taken from stool, wounds, or blood.
The CDC recommends increasing fluid intake for mild infections to avoid dehydration.
People with infected wounds may require surgical intervention to eliminate dead tissue.
“Close attention must be given to the wound site. In some cases of wound infections, amputation of the affected limb may be necessary,” said Florida Health.
According to the CDC, about 20% of individuals with such infections die within one or two days of becoming ill.
Prevention tips
Health experts advise against entering warm salt or brackish water if you have any fresh cuts or scrapes.
Avoid eating raw oysters or any other raw shellfish, and prevent cross-contamination of raw seafood juices with other foods.
It’s recommended to wear protective gloves when handling raw shellfish.
Individuals with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, or those on immunosuppressive medications are at greater risk for complications and should take additional precautions, the CDC notes.
In 2024, Florida Health reported 82 cases of Vibrio vulnificus and 19 related fatalities.
In 2023, there were 46 cases and 11 deaths.
