Fourth Florida Resident Dies from Flesh-Eating Bacteria Linked to Oysters
Health officials are warning the public about the risks of Vibrio vulnificus infections, which can be deadly.
A fourth individual in Florida has died from an infection with Vibrio vulnificus, a dangerous flesh-eating bacterium commonly associated with consuming raw or undercooked oysters, according to state health officials.
The latest fatality was reported in Broward County, affecting a resident between the ages of 75 and 79. It is currently unclear how this individual contracted the infection. Previous deaths were reported in Bay, Palm Beach, and Marion counties.
Florida has recorded 21 cases of Vibrio vulnificus in 2026. The state saw higher numbers in recent years, with 82 cases and 19 deaths in 2024, and 74 cases and 17 deaths in 2022. Health officials noted that an unusual increase in cases in some counties followed severe weather events, such as hurricanes Helene and Ian, which can lead to standing or floodwaters that pose a risk of exposure to the bacteria.
Vibrio vulnificus is naturally found in warm, brackish seawater. Most infections occur through the consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Exposure can also happen when an open wound comes into contact with contaminated water.
According to the Florida Department of Health, Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream infections are fatal approximately 50% of the time. While healthy individuals may experience mild illness, those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions are at significantly higher risk. A study indicated that individuals with these conditions are 80 times more likely to develop severe Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream infections compared to healthy people.
Symptoms of severe infection can include fever, chills, a drop in blood pressure (septic shock), and blistering skin lesions. In some cases, wound infections can lead to extensive tissue damage requiring amputation.
Beyond Florida, Louisiana has reported 15 cases and six deaths as of September 9, with 14 cases linked to wound or seawater exposure. Texas typically averages 33 cases annually, and Mississippi reported three cases as of August.