A Florida man is facing the amputation of his left leg after contracting a severe infection from the flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus. Ben West, 38, is sharing his harrowing experience as health officials along the Gulf Coast warn of a surge in cases.
West contracted the bacteria in late August 2025 while fishing in Port St. Joe, Florida. Despite wearing tall boots, a raw spot on his ankle became the entry point for the bacteria. He began experiencing intense burning and swelling, with his leg ultimately swelling to eight times its normal size.
"It was the worst pain he’s ever felt and he kept telling me his leg felt to be on fire," his wife, Janie West, wrote on a GoFundMe page. Doctors performed six surgeries in an attempt to save his leg, involving the removal of infected tissue.
Initially misdiagnosed with cellulitis, West's condition deteriorated rapidly. He was placed on a ventilator and underwent further surgeries. Doctors later performed skin grafts, using over 300 staples and stitches to close the wounds. However, the wounds reopened, leading to further complications.
After months of painful wound care and physical therapy, West decided to proceed with an amputation below the knee. His wife stated that he is eager to regain mobility and improve his quality of life.
Vibrio vulnificus thrives in coastal waters and typically enters the body through open wounds or by consuming raw shellfish, especially oysters. Florida historically records the highest number of Vibrio vulnificus cases in the United States. This year, 14 people in the state have been infected, resulting in two deaths. Last year, five deaths were attributed to the bacteria.
An infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a condition where the flesh around the wound dies, leading to the bacteria's "flesh-eating" moniker. If the bacteria enters the bloodstream, it can be fatal, causing symptoms such as skin lesions, fever, chills, and dangerously low blood pressure.
To prevent Vibrio infections, health officials recommend cooking all shellfish thoroughly and exercising caution around shells. It is advised to avoid swimming in seawater or brackish water, especially with open wounds, and to wash any wounds immediately if contact with such water occurs.