Vibrio vulnificus, a rare flesh-eating bacteria, continues to spread across the U.S., causing numerous deaths. According to the Florida Department of Health, vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria that resides mostly in warm seawater, making this a larger issue for U.S. coastal waters. 

“Flesh-eating bacteria can cause severe disease, and they are thought to have increased prevalence on the Gulf Coast,” Veterinary student Caroline Zagoren said.

Florida remains one of the primary states affected by this life-threatening bacteria. At least five people in Florida have died from vibrio vulnificus, two of whom were reported in Hillsborough County, while the rest were in Polk, Pasco and Sarasota counties. This past year, following Hurricane Ian, cases of this bacteria spiked in Florida. These vibrio vulnificus bacteria grow at a higher rate after hurricanes mix fresh rainwater with seawater, resulting in the current number of cases.

 The Center for Disease Control recently issued an alert regarding the rare flesh-eating bacteria, since it is currently the warmest time of the year and vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm waters. The CDC also reported that around 200 vibrio vulnificus infections are reported every year and about one-in-five people with this infection die —raising warranted concern. 

There are multiple variants of vibrio vulnificus, all of which result in different outcomes. According to the CDC, some vibrio vulnificus infections lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection that causes the flesh around an open wound to die. Infection may also occur through an open wound coming into contact with raw or undercooked seafood.

Recently, the CDC released an alert regarding the dangers of the flesh-eating bacteria, providing safety measures with the current spread. 

“There are no current vaccinations available to prevent necrotizing fasciitis, but when one breaks their epidermal barrier, they should always wash the area to prevent infection,” Zagoren said. 

In addition, an oyster that contains harmful bacteria does not look or smell different from a regular oyster — that is what makes this bacteria so harmful. Although vibrio vulnificus remains primarily prevalent in the warmer months, reported cases remain year-round. The U.S. must remain cautious and informed about the various cases in order to understand the seriousness of this infection.