Florida Sees Rise in Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases; 5 Infections Reported by Late April
Florida has recorded an increase in Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to the Florida Department of Health. As of late April, five cases had been reported, surpassing the three cases by this time last year. The bacteria, which causes a rare but severe infection, is most active from June to September.
Key Details
- A case was confirmed in Miami-Dade County in late April, the fifth in the state this year. Other cases have been reported in Hillsborough, Lee, Palm Beach, and St. Johns counties.
- Vibrio vulnificus occurs naturally in brackish, warm water and can cause infection through open wounds or consumption of contaminated shellfish.
- People with compromised immune systems, diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disorders are at higher risk of severe complications.
- The infection can lead to necrotizing fasciitis (tissue death) and septic shock if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
Historical Context
- In 2024, a record 82 cases were confirmed in Florida, following hurricanes Helene, Milton, and Debby. That year's count surpassed the previous record of 74 cases in 2022, when Hurricane Ian caused widespread flooding.
- Combined, those two years saw 36 deaths from V. vulnificus in Florida, according to the state health department.
- Projections indicate that rising water temperatures due to climate change may increase the abundance and geographic range of V. vulnificus.
Prevention and Symptoms
The Florida Department of Health recommends:
- Avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish.
- Cooking shellfish thoroughly (boiling for at least 5 minutes, or steaming for 9 minutes after shells open).
- Avoiding exposure of open wounds to warm salt or brackish water, or to seafood harvested from such waters.
- Wearing gloves when handling uncooked shellfish.
Symptoms of infection include diarrhea, cramping, vomiting, chills, fever, low blood pressure, blistering around wounds, swelling, abnormal skin discoloration, and leaking fluids. Prompt medical care is critical, as delays of hours can affect outcomes.
Medical Expert Commentary
Anthony Ouellette, professor of biology and chemistry at Jacksonville University, stated that V. vulnificus produces enzymes that degrade human proteins, facilitating tissue destruction, and has a carbohydrate capsule that helps evade immune response.
Dr. Norman Beatty, professor of medicine at the University of Florida, noted that healthy individuals ingesting the bacteria typically develop mild gastroenteritis, but those with risk factors (e.g., liver disease) should avoid potentially contaminated food or water. He emphasized that wound exposure can lead to rapid necrotizing infection and septic shock, and that patients should inform doctors of recent exposure to salt or brackish water.