From Fox News: Eight deaths have been reported in Florida due to a “flesh-eating” bacterial infection, according to state health officials.
The Florida Department of Health has confirmed 13 total cases of Vibrio vulnificus across 11 counties, as reported by local outlets.
Last year, the state reported even higher numbers: 82 cases and 19 deaths.
Louisiana is also seeing a higher-than-average case count, with the health department reporting 17 infections and four deaths so far in 2025.
An average of 150 to 200 people nationwide are infected with the deadly virus each year, although it is most prominent in the Gulf Coast states of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
The Florida Department of Health website includes the following details:
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that normally lives in warm seawater and is part of a group of vibrios that are called “halophilic” because they require salt.
Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare.
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria in warm, brackish seawater.
Water and wounds do not mix. Do not enter the water if you have fresh cuts or scrapes.
IMPORTANT: Individuals who are immunocompromised, e.g chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune system, should wear proper foot protection to prevent cuts and injury caused by rocks and shells on the beach.
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