Danger Lurking in Warm Waters: Florida Sees 5 Deaths, 20 Cases of Flesh-Eating Bacteria This Summer

If you’ve been enjoying Florida’s beaches and shellfish this summer, it’s time for a slightly unsettling side note—there’s a rare but serious bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus making appearances, and it’s not messing around.

The Florida Department of Health reports 20 confirmed cases of this “flesh-eating” bacterium in 2025—and five of them have been fatal so far.

Here’s how things ramped up: back in July, health officials had tallied 11 cases and four deaths. Now, those numbers jumped to 20 cases and five deaths within just a few weeks. One of the most recent cases popped up in Martin County on August 7—but the patient survived.

Why It’s Happening

Think of Vibrio vulnificus like a seasonal creep: it thrives in warm, salty or brackish water—such as Florida’s coasts—especially when ocean temps rise. Storms and hurricanes, like past hits from Hurricane Helene, can push contaminated water inland, further increasing risk.

Though rare, this infection is serious. If it enters the body—either through open wounds or by eating raw or undercooked shellfish (hello, oysters)—it can escalate fast. Symptoms include fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, severe skin lesions, and even septic shock. In worst-case scenarios, surgery or amputation may be required.

Who’s in the Line of Fire?

Most folks with healthy immune systems sail right through. But for those with liver disease, weakened immunity, diabetes, or chronic conditions—things can get dangerous. In fact, bloodstream infections from Vibrio vulnificus can carry a fatality rate nearing 50%.

How to Stay Safely in the Water—and the Seafood Line

• Cook seafood thoroughly—no oysters on the half-shell, please. Shells should be fully open post-cooking, or boil shucked shellfish and seafood for at least 3 minutes.

• Shield wounds from seawater. If you have cuts, scars, or scrapes, avoid salt or brackish water—or cover them with waterproof bandages.

• Wash up immediately after handling raw shellfish.

• Get medical help fast if you get sick. Fever, nausea, and skin blisters after water exposure? Don’t wait