The Florida Department of Health announced on Wednesday another fatality caused by Vibrio vulnificus, commonly referred to as the "flesh-eating" bacteria. This recent death brings the total to four in the state for the year 2026.
The latest victim was from Broward County, as reported by NBC6. Officials have not released the individual's identity or specifics on how the infection was contracted.
Up to now, Florida has confirmed 21 cases and four deaths. The fatalities have occurred in Broward, Palm Beach, Marion, and Bay counties. Broward County has reported two infections this year, matching Miami-Dade, which has seen no deaths so far.
Concerns about the infections arose before the peak season. By early June, Florida had already noted five cases, surpassing the number recorded at the same time last year.
One particularly severe case happened in St. Johns County, where a 74-year-old man required an above-the-knee amputation after a wound came into contact with water while he was swimming.
The first death of the year was reported in late July in Palm Beach, followed by a second in August in Marion County when the state had 14 reported infections. Another death was later confirmed in Bay County.
Despite the increase, the current numbers remain lower than those of 2024, when Florida recorded 82 cases and 19 deaths, a surge attributed to exposure to floodwaters following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In 2025, there were 33 cases and five fatalities.
Vibrio vulnificus naturally inhabits warm, brackish coastal waters, with infections occurring more often between May and October. The bacteria can enter the body through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters. It is not transmitted from person to person.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that some infections can progress rapidly, necessitating intensive care or amputations. Approximately one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus dies, sometimes within just a day or two of becoming ill.
Individuals with liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
Health officials advise avoiding contact between open wounds and salty or brackish water, using waterproof bandages if exposure is possible, and fully cooking seafood before consumption.
Understanding Vibrio vulnificus and Its Impact in Florida
What is Vibrio vulnificus?
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria that naturally lives in warm, brackish coastal waters. It is known for causing severe infections that can lead to death, particularly when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water or through the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood.
How can Vibrio vulnificus infections be prevented?
To prevent infections, avoid exposing open wounds to salty or brackish water, cover them with waterproof bandages if exposure is possible, and ensure seafood is thoroughly cooked before eating.
Who is most at risk for severe illness from Vibrio vulnificus?
Those with liver disease, diabetes, or compromised immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness from Vibrio vulnificus infections.