Four Flesh-Eating Bacterium Fatalities Confirmed in Florida

This year, four people in Florida have died from an infection caused by a bacterium commonly known as the "flesh-eating" bacterium. To date, 11 infections in various countries have been reported this year from this waterborne and foodborne pathogen.

As of July 11, 2025, the Florida Department of Health reported that fatalities had occurred in Hillsborough, Bay, Broward, and St. Johns counties. 

In 2024, Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota Counties experienced an unusual increase due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Florida reported 82 cases and 19 fatalities last year.

During 2024, Pinellas County (Tampa Bay) led all Florida counties with 15 cases and three deaths.

The disease is caused by Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that thrives in warm water and is termed "halophilic" because it requires salt to survive, as stated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Importantly, individuals who are immunocompromised or have a weakened immune system should wear proper foot protection to prevent cuts and injuries caused by rocks and shells on the beach, according to the CDC.

Additionally, thousands of cases are related to the consumption of contaminated food. 

The CDC estimates that approximately 80,000 cases occur each year, leading to about 100 deaths annually. 

The CDC recommends avoiding contact with open wounds from brackish water, salt water, and raw seafood, and thoroughly cooking oysters and other seafood before eating, to prevent infection and illness.

As of July 15, 2025, there are no approved vaccines to prevent Vibrio vulnificus-related illness.