This year, Florida has seen four deaths related to carnivorous species. The health department confirmed these fatalities in an announcement on its website. They also noted that 11 individuals were infected with bacteria this year.
Vibrio vulnificus is a strain of bacteria found in coastal waters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Typically, this bacterium thrives in warm, brackish water, which poses a risk to those with open wounds while swimming.
An additional source of potential infections includes raw shellfish, especially oysters, as highlighted by Florida Health. While such infections are rare, Vibrio vulnificus can lead to severe illnesses characterized by symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and serious skin infections.
Symptoms of a Vibrio skin infection can manifest as fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration, and discharge, as stated on the CDC’s website. Generally, healthy individuals may only endure mild symptoms, whereas those with weakened immune systems or chronic liver conditions are at a greater risk for serious complications.
Florida Health warns that when this bacterium enters the bloodstream, it can lead to grave illnesses associated with fever, chills, septic shock, and skin lesions. Alarmingly, about half of bloodstream infections could be fatal.
In severe instances, Vibrio vulnificus might cause necrotizing fasciitis, a condition that destroys tissue around an open wound, which is why it’s sometimes referred to as “meat-eating bacteria.” Thankfully, Florida Health has not reported any cases of person-to-person transmission.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Health officials indicate that infections are identified through cultures from stool, wounds, or blood samples. For milder infections, staying hydrated is key. Those with severe infections may require antibiotics to enhance their chances of survival, while some may need surgery to remove dead tissue.
Close attention should be given to any wound infections, as amputation might be required for severely infected limbs, according to Florida Health. The CDC reports that around one in five people with an infection can die within just one to two days.
Prevention Tips
Health experts advise against swimming in warm salt or brackish waters if you have fresh cuts or scratches. It’s also best to avoid eating raw oysters or shellfish and to prevent cross-contamination of raw seafood with other foods.
When handling raw shellfish, using protective gloves is recommended. Those with liver diseases, cancers, diabetes, HIV, thalassemia, or on immunosuppressive medications should take special precautions as they are at greater risk for complications.
In 2024, Florida Health recorded a total of 82 Vibrio vulnificus cases with 19 fatalities. In 2023, there were 46 cases and 11 deaths.
