From the Florida Department of Health and Staff Reports
The Florida Department of Health is warning residents and visitors to exercise caution in warm coastal waters after confirming four deaths so far this year from Vibrio vulnificus—a rare but potentially deadly bacterium sometimes referred to as a “flesh‑eating” infection.
Related: How to stay safe during heat waves and warning signs to watch for heat stroke.
According to the department’s official update on its Vibrio page, as of July 11, 2025, there have been 11 confirmed cases statewide, with fatalities reported in Hillsborough, Bay, Broward, and St. Johns counties. The infections occur when the bacterium—naturally found in warm, brackish seawater—enters the body through an open wound or is ingested via raw or undercooked seafood such as oysters.
A recurring danger after storms and in summer heat
The warning comes amid a rise in infections over recent years, particularly after hurricanes and periods of extreme heat that raise coastal water temperatures. In 2024, after Hurricane Helene, Florida reported 74 cases and 13 deaths. A similar surge occurred in 2022 following Hurricane Ian.
How to protect yourself
Health officials emphasize that most people who swim in salt or brackish water will never develop Vibrio infections. But they recommend the following precautions:
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Avoid entering coastal waters with fresh cuts, scrapes, or surgical wounds.
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Cover wounds with waterproof bandages if exposure is unavoidable.
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Cook seafood thoroughly, especially shellfish like oysters.
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Seek medical care immediately if redness, swelling, or fever occurs after exposure.
A rare but serious risk
Although Vibrio vulnificus infections are uncommon, they progress rapidly when they occur. The bacteria can cause bloodstream infections, severe sepsis, or necrotizing fasciitis—the condition that has earned it the “flesh‑eating” nickname.
For more information or ongoing updates, visit the Florida Department of Health’s dedicated page.
Editor's Note: This article was produced with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model, to help with content, research, drafting, and editing. All content has been reviewed and verified for accuracy by The Apopka Voice editorial team.
