3 days ago
Report: 13 cases of flesh-eating bacteria, eight deaths confirmed in Florida
Florida has confirmed 13 cases of Vibrio vulnificus—often called "flesh-eating" bacteria—across 11 counties this year, with eight deaths, the Florida Department of Health told CBS News Miami partner el Nuevo Herald.
Officials said eight cases were tied to wound exposure but stressed the infections are "sporadic and unrelated to an outbreak."
The Sunshine State saw its highest-ever case count in 2024—82 infections and 19 deaths—with health officials noting that hurricanes and storm surges, such as those from Hurricane Helene last year, can push coastal waters inland, heightening infection risks.
The bacteria, found in saltwater and brackish water, can cause severe illness or death within one to two days, according to the CDC.
Most cases in the U.S. occur in Gulf Coast states.
Read the full story from Miami Herald's Sonia Osorio here.
Dr. Edward Hirsch, an infectious disease specialist at HCA Florida University Hospital, recommends rinsing off after swimming in ocean water and ensuring seafood is thoroughly cooked. "It's very frightening. Luckily, it's very rare," he added.
Here are some key facts about Vibrio vulnificus, according to the CDC:
For more information, visit the CDC's Vibrio page.
