Vibrio vulnificus cases, deaths, rising in Florida, other Gulf states

Key Points:

• Florida has reported 22 cases and four deaths from Vibrio vulnificus infections so far in 2026, with cases occurring across multiple counties including Bay, Broward, Marion, and Palm Beach.
• Vibrio vulnificus, a rare flesh-eating bacterium found in brackish water and raw seafood, infects people through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by eating raw oysters, and can cause life-threatening tissue damage rapidly.
• Other Gulf Coast states such as Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and South Carolina have also reported cases and deaths, highlighting the regional risk during the peak season from May to October.
• People with compromised immune systems, liver disease, diabetes, or other underlying conditions are at highest risk of severe infection, which can develop symptoms within 24 hours and may require emergency medical intervention.
• Health officials recommend avoiding exposure of open wounds to brackish water, thoroughly cooking seafood, and practicing good hygiene when handling raw seafood to reduce infection risk.