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Flesh-eating bacteria has killed 5 in Louisiana this year, officials say
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Louisiana has reported at least five deaths and nine total cases of Vibrio vulnificus in 2026, with all patients having underlying health conditions and wound exposure to seawater.
- Vibrio vulnificus infections have increased in recent years, with 26 cases and five fatalities in Louisiana in 2025, and Florida also reporting multiple deaths linked to the bacteria, often after major storms.
- Rising ocean temperatures due to climate change are expanding the risk of Vibrio vulnificus infections to new regions, including recent detections in New York's Long Island coastal waters.
- Vibrio vulnificus is the most serious form of vibriosis, with about a 20% fatality rate, and infections typically occur between May and October through seawater exposure or consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.
- Health officials advise avoiding salt or brackish water with open wounds, thoroughly cooking seafood, and washing wounds promptly after exposure to reduce the risk of infection.
