Florida's Hidden Water Danger: Flesh-Eating Bacteria on the Rise

Florida's warm coastal waters harbor a dangerous bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus. This bacteria can cause severe infections, and tragically, four people have died from it this year alone.

Where and Why It Thrives

• Habitat: Warm, brackish water
• Temperature Range: 59-104°F
• Climate Change Impact: Warmer temperatures aid its spread

Infection Statistics

• 2023: 11 infections, 4 deaths
• 2022: 82 infections, 19 deaths (partly due to Hurricane Helene)

How You Can Get Infected

• Open Wounds: Bacteria entering through cuts or scrapes
• Undercooked Shellfish: Consuming contaminated seafood

Symptoms and Risks

• Onset: Within 24 hours
• Common Symptoms: Fever, chills, dizziness, confusion
• Wound Symptoms: Rash, swelling, painful blisters, tissue death
• Severe Complications: Necrotizing fasciitis, sepsis, septic shock
• High-Risk Groups: People with weakened immune systems, chronic liver disease, or diabetes

Prevention and Treatment

• Prevention:
• Avoid ocean water with open wounds
• Clean wounds immediately with sterile water

• Cook shellfish thoroughly

• Treatment:
• Seek medical help immediately
• Diagnosis through stool, wound, or blood cultures
• Treatment with antibiotics
• Severe cases may require surgery