Florida health authorities have issued a public health alert over confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria commonly known as "flesh-eating" because of the severe tissue damage it can cause. State officials have confirmed four deaths linked to the bacteria so far in 2026.
According to a report by N+ Univision 43, authorities were tracking a total of 20 confirmed cases of the infection as of September 3. The four fatalities were recorded in Bay, Broward, Marion and Palm Beach counties, state officials confirmed.
What the bacteria is and why it is dangerous
The Cleveland Clinic defines Vibrio vulnificus as a type of bacteria that typically enters the body when a person eats raw or undercooked shellfish, though it can also infect open wounds exposed to contaminated water.
The organism develops in warm waters with low salinity, conditions commonly found where rivers flow into the sea, an environment present in many parts of Florida's coastline.
Per the Cleveland Clinic, infection with Vibrio vulnificus causes a severe form of vibriosis that can rapidly progress to sepsis, shock and extensive blisters that destroy tissue, which is the reason behind the bacteria's "flesh-eating" nickname.
Symptoms of a Vibrio vulnificus infection
Signs of infection tend to appear suddenly, generally within 24 hours of exposure. Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Redness or a rash on the skin that quickly becomes inflamed and painful
- Large, discolored or painful fluid-filled blisters on the skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness, fainting or weakness
- Confusion or an altered mental state
- A rapid heart rate
How to avoid a Vibrio vulnificus infection
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises Florida residents not to eat raw or undercooked oysters or other shellfish, and to check food for any unusual appearance or smell before eating it.
For anyone with an open wound, the CDC recommends staying out of the sea or brackish water, or covering the wound with a waterproof bandage. Any cut or scrape should also be washed thoroughly, according to the agency.
